UNC Keeps Dancing After Beating UCLA

PHILADELPHIA, PA — The UNC Tar Heels (27-9, 15-5 ACC) advanced to the elite 8 after a close win against the UCLA Bruins (27-8, 15-5 Pac-12), 73-66. This marks Carolina’s 27th appearance in the Elite 8. The last time Carolina was in the elite 8, they won the National Title in 2017.

“At the end of the day, especially in the NCAA Tournament, you just need guys to step up,” said UNC Head Coach Hubert Davis. “It’s not about the coaches, it’s all about the players.”

After a shallow performance in the first half by UNC, only scoring 28 points, they bounced back with a 27 point half by Caleb Love.

Love, Carolina’s star guard, and 2022 NBA draft prospect shined tonight After a 3 point performance in the first half. He put the team on his back, scoring 27 points in the second half, including two late threes to give UNC the lead late. He finished with a game-high 30 points and 4 assists. Carolina is 20-0 when Love scores 20 or more.

“The best part of my game is not losing my confidence level,” said Caleb Love.

Carolina had 4 starters in double figures, including Love. Armando Bacot recorded another double-double with 14 points and a game-high 15 rebounds. Brady Manek had 13 points, and R.J. Davis had 12 points.

The number 4 seed UCLA Bruins’ season has come to an end. Jules Bernard lead the way for the Bruins scoring a team-high 16 points. Junior guard Tyger Campbell had 15 points.

Carolina will face the Saint Peter’s Peacocks (22-11, 14-6 Metro Atlantic) Sunday, in the Elite 8. The peacocks downed number Purdue (29-8, 14-6 Big Ten) earlier tonight.