UNC basketball is experiencing its best start in 17 years under head coach Hubert Davis, showcasing a strong defense and the impressive frontcourt partnership of Caleb Wilson and Henri Veesaar. The Tar Heels, currently ranked 12th and boasting a record of 12-1, face a challenge as they approach their ACC opener against Florida State (7-6) on December 30.
Despite their strong start, the team has struggled with free-throw shooting, reflecting a concerning 68.4% percentage thus far. This marks a potential low for the team since Roy Williams’ last season in 2021. Out of a national ranking of 353 teams, UNC sits at 279th for free-throw shooting, managing to exceed 70% in only five of their first 13 games.
Addressing this issue, Coach Davis admitted that improving their free-throw shooting is complex. “Other than, ‘Make ‘em,’ it’s hard,” he stated during a recent press conference. To counter the problem, Davis has emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent shooting routine and building confidence during practice.
Historically, free-throw performance has tied closely to NCAA tournament success for the Tar Heels. Of the last 13 teams at UNC that finished with under 70% from the line, only three advanced to the subsequent weekend of the NCAA Tournament. Recently, the Tar Heels ended November shooting above 70% on free-throws, but have seen a significant drop to 62.1% in December’s games, which included a season-low 53.8% in a narrow win over Ohio State.
Freshman Caleb Wilson, averaging 19.6 points and 10.8 rebounds, is essential in improving their free-throw statistics. While he’s ranked high nationally in drawing fouls, he has struggled at the line, hitting 69.4% overall, with a notable dip to 54.4% in recent games. Despite this, Wilson remains optimistic, emphasizing the need to refine his technique.
Coach Davis, reflecting on his own playing days when he was an 81.9% shooter, noted that over-discussing free-throw shooting can be counterproductive. He believes players need the freedom to adapt during games without excessive external influence, fostering a sense of confidence that the team can improve their performance at the line.
As the Tar Heels gear up for their upcoming matchup, there remains a sense of hope and determination surrounding the team. With continued practice and a focus on maintaining their competitive spirit, UNC aims to turn around their free-throw struggles and make a significant impact in the ACC.