UNC basketball hosts Virginia Tech in a crucial ACC matchup, with the Tar Heels focused on containing three Hokies whose shooting and versatility could swing the result.
North Carolina will seek its third consecutive victory when it faces Virginia Tech at 8:30 p.m. ET.
The Tar Heels are coming off another win against a top-25 team, a 77-74 victory over No. 21 Louisville. Seth Trimble scored a career-high 30 points and was the decisive factor in a critical game as March quickly approaches. North Carolina improved its record against top-25 opponents to 4-1.
The Hokies have been inconsistent in conference play, posting a 7-8 record in the ACC and 18-10 overall. They currently sit 11th in the league standings and are projected in the “next four out” category in most NCAA Tournament forecasts. With limited opportunities remaining to strengthen their resume, Virginia Tech’s heightened urgency presents a potentially challenging matchup for North Carolina.
Several key Virginia Tech players will command North Carolina’s attention throughout the contest.
PF Amani Hansberry (6-8, 240)
Hansberry is Tech’s leading scorer, averaging 14.7 points on 48.5% shooting from the field and 34.5% from 3-point range, along with 7.7 rebounds per game. His 3-point percentage has improved in ACC play, where he is shooting 39.6% from beyond the arc.
G Ben Hammond (5-11, 170)
While he is not the biggest player on the court, his impact is significant. Hammond is averaging 12.6 points on 44.1% shooting from the field and 43.0% from 3-point range, along with 3.2 assists and 2.1 rebounds per game.
His production has increased in ACC play since he became a full-time starter. He leads the team in scoring with 14.7 points per game on 47.6% shooting from the field and 50% from 3-point range, and he is also averaging two steals per game in conference play.
G Jailen Bedford (6-4, 181)
Bedford has had a solid season, averaging 11.4 points per game on 41.3% shooting from the field and 36.8% from 3-point range. He has improved in ACC play, averaging nearly 14 points per game on 40.8% from the field and 37.5% from beyond the arc.
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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: UNC basketball: Three Virginia Tech players to watch
Category: General Sports
