Tar Heels’ Dominant Win Silences Critics in NCAA First Four

North Carolina’s Dominant Performance Silences Critics in NCAA First Four

DAYTON, Ohio — In a night that will be remembered for its sheer dominance and precision, RJ Davis led the North Carolina Tar Heels to a resounding 95-68 victory over the San Diego State Aztecs in the NCAA Tournament’s First Four matchup on Tuesday night. Davis was nothing short of spectacular, scoring 26 points and going a perfect 6 of 6 from beyond the arc.

For those who have been following the Tar Heels, this performance was a statement. Critics had been vocal about North Carolina’s inclusion in the tournament, with many pointing to their 1-12 record in Quadrant 1 games as a reason they should have been left out. Yet, the Tar Heels showed up in Dayton with something to prove, and prove it they did.

RJ Davis’ six 3-pointers tied the program record for an NCAA Tournament game, a record previously set by Caleb Love against UCLA in 2022. This feat was reminiscent of Tar Heels coach Hubert Davis’ own performance when he went 5 for 5 from deep against Eastern Michigan back in 1991. The team as a whole was on fire from downtown, making 14 3-pointers, the most ever for North Carolina in an NCAA Tournament game, surpassing the 13 they hit against Marquette in 2022.

Adding to the offensive onslaught, Seth Trimble contributed 16 points, helping to solidify the Tar Heels’ dominance in this matchup of No. 11 seeds. The team shot an impressive 61% in the first half, going 7 of 9 from 3-point range. Davis’ long 3-pointer just before the halftime buzzer extended their lead to 47-23, a gap that San Diego State could not close.

San Diego State, known for leading the nation in field goal percentage defense, found themselves unable to contain the Tar Heels’ offensive prowess. Despite the efforts of Nick Boyd and Wayne McKinney III, who each scored 12 points, the Aztecs’ season came to an end.

North Carolina’s journey in the tournament continues as they advance to face No. 6 seed Mississippi in a South Region game on Friday in Milwaukee. The Tar Heels, now 23-13, were a controversial selection for the NCAA Tournament, but their strong nonconference schedule and other metrics ultimately earned them a spot. This victory over San Diego State is a testament to their potential and determination to silence the doubters.

• RJ Davis: 26 points, 6 of 6 from 3-point range
• North Carolina: 14 made 3-pointers, a program record in NCAA Tournament
• Next game: vs. No. 6 seed Mississippi in Milwaukee

As the Tar Heels move forward, they carry with them the momentum of this decisive win and the confidence that comes from proving their critics wrong. The road ahead will not be easy, but if Tuesday night’s performance is any indication, North Carolina is ready to take on whatever challenges come their way.