Fresh off Duke Thriller, UNC Now Must Avoid Hangover

The ACC schedule delivers another heavyweight clash on Tuesday, February 10, as the No. 14 North Carolina Tar Heels travel to Coral Gables to face the Miami Hurricanes at Watsco Center.

UNC Eyes Statement Road Win to Solidify ACC Contender Status

This matchup pits a surging Tar Heels squad – fresh off a gritty 71-68 road win over rival Duke after a last second three from senior guard Seth Trimble – against a Hurricanes team hungry for a signature victory to bolster its NCAA Tournament resume.

"This university means so much to me. It was the biggest point was to represent the University of North Carolina today, and we didn't really do that for 32 minutes of the game, but those last eight minutes, those last four minutes, whatever you want to call it, we did that,” said Trimble following the game-winning shot to beat Duke.

“This rivalry means so much to me. This university means so much to me.”

Here’s UNC senior Seth Trimble after his game-winning shot to beat Duke.

He adds that the final play wasn’t drawn up for him. pic.twitter.com/o0mRGOamru
— Josh Graham (@JoshGrahamShow) February 8, 2026

The Tar Heels boast an impeccable 14-0 home record and a solid 3-3 mark on the road, showing resilience away from Chapel Hill. Their balanced attack features veteran leadership and improved defensive intensity, allowing them to grind out tight games while pulling away in others. North Carolina ranks among the ACC’s top teams in scoring efficiency and rebounding margins, and their recent five-game win streak highlights a group playing with urgency and confidence.

Jai Lucas' Turnaround Squad Ready to Test UNC's Five-Game Win Streak

Miami, under first-year head coach Jai Lucas, has been one of the biggest surprises in the ACC this season. After a disastrous 7-24 campaign in 2024-2025 – the program’s worst in decades – the Hurricanes have flipped the script dramatically. They’ve already surpassed last year’s win total by a wide margin and sit firmly in the top third of the league standings.

The “Canes have built a formidable home-court advantage at Watsco Center, where the atmosphere can be electric against ranked opponents. Miami’s roster blends experienced transfers with emerging talent, creating a versatile lineup capable of scoring in transition and protecting the rim. Lucas has instilled a sense of belief in a group that was counted out before the season even began. A win over a top-15 North Carolina team would serve as a massive signature victory and further solidify Miami’s push toward an NCAA Tournament berth.

Miami is now 15-2 in Jai Lucas 1st year.

Best start in Miami basketball history.

Give Jai Lucas coach of the year pic.twitter.com/RJCiedyOEE
— Top Tier Miami (@TopTierCanes) January 14, 2026

Key Matchups to Watch

Perimeter battle: UNC’s guards will need to contain Miami’s quick ball-handlers and limit transition opportunities. The Hurricanes thrive when they push the pace.
Interior Presence: Rebounding could decide the game. UNC’s size and physicality give them a slight edge on the boards.
Clutch Execution: Whichever team handles pressure better – whether it’s drawing fouls, forcing turnovers, or hitting big shots – will likely come away with the win.

Carolina's Depth and Experience Ready to Silence Watsco Center

This feels like a toss-up with massive implications. North Carolina has the pedigree and momentum, but Miami has the home crowd and something to prove. The Tar Heels’ experience in big games gives them a narrow edge, but don’t be surprised if the Hurricanes pull off the upset in front of their raucous fans.

Jan 21, 2026; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels center Henri Veesaar (13) reacts in the second half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Predicted score: UNC 75, Miami 70.

Whoever comes out on top will gain ground in the ACC race and strengthen their case as a legitimate contender in a loaded conference. Tip-off is set for 7:00 P.M. ET on ESPN – don’t miss it.

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