UNC's Luka Bogavac Shines in a Close Win Over Clemson, Securing a Perfect Home Record
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — In a thrilling showdown at the Smith Center, Luka Bogavac led No. 17 North Carolina to a 67-63 victory over Clemson, capping an undefeated season in Chapel Hill and setting a new program record for home wins. Bogavac's stellar performance included a career-high 20 points, with a remarkable 6-of-10 shooting from beyond the arc.
The Tar Heels' overall record now stands at 24-6, and 12-5 in ACC play, heading into the regular season's final game.
Bogavac's clutch performance was crucial, as he scored 17 points in the second half, including five three-pointers. Henri Veesaar contributed 13 points, six rebounds, and four assists, while Jarin Stevenson added nine points and 10 rebounds.
A Late-Game Thriller
Despite leading 61-55 with 2:21 to play, Clemson mounted a late push, cutting UNC's lead to one point with under 20 seconds remaining. However, Bogavac's free throws proved decisive, as he calmly sank both shots to secure the win. With Veesaar fouling out, Bogavac's free throws were a game-changer, as North Carolina's defense held firm.
Clemson's efforts were thwarted by North Carolina's tenacious defense, as the Tigers missed two rim shots before Seth Trimble secured the game-winning rebound and made a free throw, icing the victory.
A Defensive Battle
Facing one of the nation's top defenses, the Tar Heels struggled offensively, shooting just 37.9% from the field (22-for-58). This was their worst shooting performance at home in ACC play and their second-worst of the season, dating back to the Radford game.
Trimble, in particular, struggled against Clemson's aggressive defense, as he faced multiple defenders and shot just 2-for-10. Bogavac's three-pointers proved to be the turning point, as he single-handedly kept UNC in the lead.
Struggles in the Paint
Despite averaging 38.7 points in the paint in their previous three games, the Tar Heels managed only 18 points in the paint, going 4-for-14 on layups. Clemson, on the other hand, dominated the lane, scoring 34 points, with Tiger forward RJ Godfrey leading the way with a season-high 22 points.
Looking Ahead
North Carolina will travel to Cameron Indoor Stadium on Saturday night for a highly anticipated showdown with No. 1 Duke, marking the second meeting of the season. The game tips off at 6:30 p.m. in Durham, promising an exciting conclusion to the regular season.
