The new-look Heels looked sloppy at times and committed 26 turnovers. But like I said, for opening night with a slew of new players that is to be expected.
The good points far outweighed the negative ones. Including:
- The Heels shot the ball very well, and finished at 56 percent for the game;
- Deon Thompson finished with 20 and 10 in only 20 minutes; he was a aggressive and dare I say "Brad Dougherty-esque?"
- Marcus Ginyard made two three-pointers on his way to 12 points; overall the Heels went 4-13 from three (12 points on 13 shots, so respectable but not great);
- Tyler Zeller looked good as he netted 12 points in 20 minutes.
If Drew finishes the season with a 3-1 assist-to-turnover ratio the Heels will make some serious noise in the ACC and NCAA tournament.
The other thing that stood out was the defense. The Heels rotated pretty well last night, and the bigs especially did a good job moving their feet and staying in front of FIU. And Ed Davis took up where he left off, with four blocks.
Granted, it is just one game against a pretty inferior foe. Nonetheless, Larry Drew reassured many a Heels fan in Tar Nation last night. I know my anxiety level dropped quite a bit last night.
A Few Random Thoughts Then It's Back To Work
- How about the throw-back unis? No one was expecting RED trim; all the shots I've ever seen of the undefeated 1957 national champs were in black and white. Who knew?
- I loved Deon's hustle play in the second half when he made a steal, then fell on his back side before making a bad pass that was intercepted by FIU. However, instead of sulking he jumped up and challenged the ensuing lay up, a shot FIU missed thanks to Deon's hustle.
- Isaiah Thomix Sux!
