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UNC's Charlottesville Curse: A Decade of Hoops Woes
24 Jan
Summary
- North Carolina struggles at John Paul Jones Arena, winning only once in nine trips.
- Virginia boasts a high-scoring offense, averaging 84.0 points per game.
- UNC's defense is vulnerable, ranking last in ACC 3-point defense.

North Carolina faces a significant challenge as they prepare to play No. 14 Virginia this Saturday. The Cavaliers, under coach Ryan Odom, have demonstrated a potent offense, averaging 84.0 points per game, complemented by strong defensive performance, leading the ACC in several key defensive categories. Their offensive efficiency is bolstered by a significant reliance on three-point shooting, averaging 28.4 attempts per game overall and 32.3 in conference play.
Virginia's attacking prowess is led by dynamic players like Thijs De Ridder and Malik Thomas. Defensively, they are anchored by 7-footer Johann Grunloh, a formidable shot blocker. This offensive and defensive capability presents a troubling matchup for North Carolina, which has struggled with its three-point defense throughout the season.
The venue itself adds another layer of difficulty for the Tar Heels. John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville has historically been a difficult place for UNC, with the team holding a mere 1-8 record in their last nine visits. This trend highlights a broader pattern of road struggles for North Carolina, making this upcoming game a critical test of their resilience.




