Methodical Win By Heels

Carolina's 21-point win over an overmatched Washington State team reminded me very much of the win over FSU in the ACC tournament.   Like the Seminoles did in Charlotte, Washington State succeeded is slowing the game down.   But in the end, this game in Charlotte ended like that the game in Charlotte - with Carolina cruising to a win in a game where they weren't seriously challenged in the last 30 minutes of the game.

The Heels were sluggish to start the game.  Hansbrough in particular seemed a bit too hyped and started the game with 3 turnovers and at least that many missed shots.

But this team is too good to hold down, especially against a second-rate team like Washington State.  Carolina was simply much more talented than the Cougars.   Will Graves would be the team from Pullman's best player.   

This game was over as soon as Danny Green checked into the Carolina line up.  His first half stats were 12 points, 4 boards, 3 steals, 1 assist and 1 game won.   He was aggressive and came off the bench determined to change the tenor of the contest.  Not only did he dominate the first 20 minutes and help Carolina go into the half up by 14, he put the game away in the first 20.

Deon Thompson and Ellington also had great first halves, with Thompson especially hot early.

The second half was a methodical display of Carolina's many talents. Lawson driving, Hansbrough going down low, shooting free throws, driving and hitting mid-range jumpers, Ellington connecting from all over the floor, and Stephenson and Ginyard playing great defense.   

The game didn't feature the offensive fire works of the previous two wins, but it was another 20 point blow out where the Heels showed they could win a half court game.   A nice night, no matter how you look at it.

Finally, the defense must have been pretty good as Washington State shot around 30 percent.  Some of that was due to Carolinas ball pressure and some of that was due to the fact that Washington State is not that talented.  

So, for the second year in a row Carolina heads to the Elite 8.  Whether the Heels end up running with Louisville or in a half court game against Tennessee, the way this team is playing I really really like our chances.

Go Heels!

NCAA Notes

• Interesting to look at the box score.  Lawson played a great second half, but was credited with zero assists. And the Heels blew out a team on a night when Wayne Ellington finished 4 for 13.
• Tough loss for the Mountaineers.  Great comeback from an early deficit, and Alexander had a great second half.  But West Virginia lost that game at the free throw line.  Not only did Alexander miss at the end of regulation but the Mountaineers missed four free throws in overtime, 3 when they had a chance to pad a four point lead.  
• Western Kentucky's nickname, the Hilltoppers, is a reminder of how daunting climbing hills used to be in the United States.  We take it for granted now, but for much of our nation's history and especially in Kentucky, getting on top of a hill was a significant achievement (I guess).