Pittsburgh Panthers vs North Carolina Tar Heels Picks and Predictions January 28th 2025

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North Carolina and Pitt Seek Key Resume-Boosting Wins in ACC Clash

Both teams aim to strengthen their NCAA Tournament chances as North Carolina visits Pitt in a critical ACC matchup.

North Carolina Aims to Build Momentum on the Road

The North Carolina Tar Heels (13-8, 6-3 ACC) are looking for a crucial Quad 1 win as they visit Pitt on Tuesday night. Coming off a narrow 72-66 overtime victory against Boston College, the Tar Heels are relying on their fast-paced, small-ball offense, which averages 82.5 points per game — second in the ACC.

Without dominant big man Armando Bacot this season, UNC has leaned on its guard-heavy lineup. RJ Davis leads the charge, averaging 17.7 points per game, followed by Ian Jackson (15), Seth Trimble (12.4), and Elliot Cadeau (10.7). Davis, who had 22 points against Boston College, continues to be the team’s focal point.

“They’re playing faster than they have in the past few years,” Pitt coach Jeff Capel said, noting UNC’s emphasis on speed and guard-driven offense.

North Carolina’s perimeter shooting remains a concern, as they rank just 13th in the ACC in 3-point percentage (32.3%). The team is beginning a challenging stretch with four road games in their next five.

Pitt Looks to Defend Home Court

The Pitt Panthers (13-6, 4-4 ACC) are also in need of a resume boost and can secure a Quad 2 win with a victory over UNC. Pitt snapped a two-game skid on Saturday with a 75-71 road victory over Syracuse. Guards Jaland Lowe and Ishmael Leggett were instrumental in the win, combining for 38 points, eight rebounds, and six assists.

Lowe averages 17.6 points and 5.7 assists per game, while Leggett adds 16.6 points and 5.6 rebounds, providing Pitt with a dynamic backcourt that can score and create for teammates.

“They’ve got a number of guys that can get hot from 3,” UNC coach Hubert Davis said of Pitt. “Their guards are strong in one-on-one and pick-and-roll situations, creating shots for themselves and others.”

Pitt will look to capitalize on North Carolina’s inconsistency from beyond the arc and maintain its strong play at home.

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Key Matchups

  • UNC’s Guard Play vs. Pitt’s Backcourt: RJ Davis and Jaland Lowe are poised to lead their teams offensively, setting the stage for a high-energy guard battle.
  • 3-Point Efficiency: While Pitt has shooters who can heat up, North Carolina’s struggles from deep could be a factor in a close game.
  • Tournament Implications: Both teams are looking to bolster their NCAA resumes, with UNC eyeing a Quad 1 win and Pitt aiming for a Quad 2 victory.

Recent History and Stakes

North Carolina swept Pitt last season and holds a 10-7 edge in the series since the Panthers joined the ACC in 2013. With both teams needing key wins to solidify their postseason chances, this matchup could have significant implications for ACC standings and NCAA Tournament outlooks.

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