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Game Preview – Radford @ North Carolina
The North Carolina Tar Heels return home with momentum after a statement win over Kansas but will now need to adjust without senior captain Seth Trimble, who suffered a broken forearm in practice Sunday.
Trimble’s injury is a major blow for No. 18 North Carolina (2-0). He had 17 points and eight rebounds in the 87-74 victory over then-No. 19 Kansas and served as the team’s starting point guard and emotional leader. The program confirmed he will undergo surgery this week and miss an indefinite stretch.
“So sad for Seth,” head coach Hubert Davis said. “He’s worked so hard for his senior year and is a great leader for us. The good news is he’ll be back at some point this season.”
Even without Trimble, the Tar Heels’ confidence is high after their explosive second half versus Kansas, where they scored 58 points while shooting 67% from the field. Freshman Caleb Wilson led the way with 24 points on 9-of-12 shooting, while Arizona transfer Henri Veesaar added 20 points and seven rebounds.
Wilson (23 points, 5.5 rebounds per game) and Veesaar (17 points, 7 rebounds) have quickly developed into one of the nation’s top frontcourt duos. Their chemistry and interior dominance have carried UNC’s offense through the early schedule.
Radford (2-0) enters as a heavy underdog but with offensive momentum of its own after a 99-61 rout of West Virginia Wesleyan. The Highlanders have shot an impressive 54.9% from the field through two games, led by Tennessee Tech transfer Jaylon Johnson, who averages 16 points per game and has gone 7-of-15 from deep this season.
First-year coach Zach Chu praised his team’s aggressive schedule, noting that matchups like this help prepare for Big South play.
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Line Movement and Odds
North Carolina opened as a 29.5-point favorite with the total set at 155.5.
| Market | Current Line |
|---|---|
| Spread | North Carolina -29.5 (-110) / Radford +29.5 (-110) |
| Total (O/U) | 155.5 Points |
| Moneyline | North Carolina -10000 / Radford +2500 |
Track line updates and totals at the college basketball odds board.
North Carolina Outlook
The Tar Heels’ offense is firing on all cylinders, averaging 86.5 points through two games on 52.4% shooting. Hubert Davis has successfully blended his veterans with new transfers and freshmen.
With Trimble sidelined, expect more on-ball responsibilities for RJ Davis and freshman point guard Seth Wilson, along with increased touches for Caleb Wilson and Henri Veesaar in the post.
Defensively, North Carolina continues to pressure effectively, holding opponents to just 39% shooting. They’ve also out-rebounded both opponents by double digits, showcasing dominance on the boards.
The Tar Heels are 6-0 in their last six nonconference home games and 5-2 ATS in their past seven games as a favorite.
North Carolina Injury Report
Seth Trimble (G) – Out indefinitely (forearm surgery).
Radford Outlook
The Highlanders come into Chapel Hill with confidence after two early-season wins, averaging 92 points per game. They’ve shown balance with five players scoring in double figures last game, led by Jaylon Johnson (16 PPG) and Brennan Rigsby Jr. (12.5 PPG).
Radford’s efficiency inside the arc is a major strength, shooting 55% overall, but their three-point accuracy remains inconsistent. Defensively, the Highlanders rely on ball pressure and rebounding but will face a steep challenge against UNC’s length and pace.
If Radford wants to compete, they’ll need to limit turnovers and force the Tar Heels into perimeter looks. Johnson’s hot hand from deep could keep things interesting early, but sustaining that pace for 40 minutes against a top-20 team will be difficult.
Radford Injury Report
No major injuries reported.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
The frontcourt duel between Caleb Wilson and Radford’s Aidan Porter will be one to watch. Wilson’s combination of athleticism and touch makes him nearly impossible to guard one-on-one, while Porter’s physical play could test UNC’s defensive rotations.
Without Trimble, UNC will rely heavily on its ball movement and spacing. Radford’s key is controlling tempo and avoiding foul trouble early.
For analytical breakdowns and efficiency trends, visit the NCAAB expert betting guide.
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Betting Trends
- North Carolina is 6-0 SU in its last six nonconference home games.
- The Tar Heels are 5-2 ATS in their last seven games as favorites.
- Radford is 4-1 ATS in its last five games overall.
- The over has hit in four of UNC’s last five games.
- Radford has gone over in both games this season.
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Prediction
Even without Seth Trimble, North Carolina’s depth and shooting efficiency make them heavy favorites to roll past Radford. Expect the Tar Heels to dominate the boards, push tempo, and keep their perfect record intact.
Projected Score: North Carolina 95, Radford 66
Best Bet: North Carolina -29.5
Total Lean: Over 155.5
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