Projections for UNC Basketball’s Top Options Against Indiana

Sunday night will be the second time we see the North Carolina Tar Heels take the court under newly hired head coach Michael Malone.

This is a monumental opportunity for the Tar Heels to build on their strengths and address some of the shortcomings that emerged in their dominant win over USC. With that in mind, here are stat line projections for North Carolina’s starting five and one selected bench player in its second exhibition game against Indiana.

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Neoklis Avdalas

Feb 28, 2026; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies guard Neoklis Avdalas (17) with the ball in the first half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Stat Line Projection: 12 points, 8 assists, and 3 rebounds

Avdalas’ playmaking was on full display against the Trojans, as he was the primary facilitator of the offense. The Virginia Tech transfer’s aggressiveness was also worth noting, as he went 8-of-8 from the free-throw line.

The 6-foot-9, 220-pound guard tended to turn his back to the basket when running the offense. You would like to see less of that, as he’s most effective operating as a free-flowing distributor of the basketball, not in a stationary position.

Terrence Brown

Mar 10, 2026; Kansas City, MO, USA; Utah Utes guard Terrence Brown (2) drives around Cincinnati Bearcats guard Day Day Thomas (1) during the second half at T-Mobile Center. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Stat Line Projection: 8 points and 3 assists

Brown was one of the biggest disappointments last weekend, as he didn’t score his first points until the final minutes, when the game was out of reach. Malone and the coaching staff will look to get the Utah transfer opportunities as early as possible.

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With Avdalas running the offense, Brown should focus on cutting to the basket and sliding to vacant spots along the perimeter for highly efficient looks.

Matt Able

Mar 12, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; NC State Wolfpack…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/projections-unc-basketballs-top-options-123001051.html

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Publish date : 2026-10-18 12:30:00

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