5 Observations From UNC Basketball’s Win Over USC

Friday night was the first time we saw the North Carolina Tar Heels in the Michael Malone era, as they defeated the USC Trojans 88-70.

With that in mind, here are five observations from the Tar Heels’ win over USC.

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Matt Able and Terrence Brown Struggle

Mar 12, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; NC State Wolfpack guard Matt Able (3) scores as Virginia Cavaliers forward Devin Tillis (11) defends in the first half at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Two of the Tar Heels’ top transfer portal acquisitions underwhelmed in the win, combining for five points, shooting 2-of-8 from the field, including 0-of-4 from three-point range. Able recorded 0 points in 18 minutes, while Brown didn’t record his first points until the final minutes.

Neoklis Avdalas’ All-Around Game

Feb 21, 2026; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies guard Neoklis Avdalas (17) points to the fans after dunking the ball against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons during the second half at Cassell Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bishop-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Avdalas was one of the first players North Carolina contacted in the transfer portal window. Malone has said the former Virginia Tech guard will give the Tar Heels a positional advantage because Avdalas can play point guard at 6-foot-9.

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That was on full display on Friday night, as Avdalas recorded 15 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, while shooting 3-of-7 from the field and 8-of-8 from the free-throw line. The sophomore guard’s ability to generate opportunities for himself and others off the dribble was as advertised.

Maximo Adams = Immediate Impact Player

Serra’s Maximo Adams (25) looks to coaches as he runs down the court during the first quarter of their first-round CIF-SS playoff game at Indio High School in Indio, Calif., Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

The freshman forward is one of the most talented players on the roster,…

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Publish date : 2026-10-12 11:00:00

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