UNC’s Henri Veesaar: Game-Time Decision Against Syracuse
As the Tar Heels gear up to face Syracuse, all eyes are on UNC’s towering center, Henri Veesaar. The 7-footer, a crucial piece of the No.
16 UNC squad, is a game-time decision due to a lingering lower-body issue. With UNC standing at 20-6 overall and 8-5 in the ACC, the stakes are high for Saturday’s matchup against Syracuse (15-12, 6-8).
Coach Hubert Davis remains hopeful, noting that Veesaar is "getting better every day" and has returned to practice, albeit in a limited capacity. The ACC injury report initially listed him as "questionable," implying less than a 50% chance of taking the court. The final decision will come just two hours before the tipoff.
Veesaar has been a standout for the Tar Heels, starting all 24 games before his recent absence. Averaging 16.4 points and 9 rebounds, his presence has been felt on both ends of the floor.
With Caleb Wilson sidelined due to a fractured hand, the Tar Heels have leaned heavily on Zayden High and Jarin Stevenson. Both have stepped up admirably, with Stevenson averaging 16 points and 6 rebounds, and High contributing 14 points and 8.5 rebounds per game.
Veesaar’s Injury Update
Veesaar’s recent absence was primarily due to illness, compounded by a lower-extremity issue. Ahead of the Pitt game, he was seen stretching with teammates but didn’t participate in warm-ups, sporting blue tape on his left Achilles.
Ruled out just before the N.C. State game, Coach Davis described his status as “day-to-day.”
The day before facing Syracuse, Veesaar was back in practice but remained "questionable."
Veesaar’s Impact and Stats
Before his time off, Veesaar was leading the ACC in double-doubles with 13 and was second in field-goal percentage at 61.5%. His scoring prowess (16.4 ppg) and rebounding skills (9 rbg) have been instrumental for UNC.
Notably, he also leads the team in 3-point shooting, hitting 44.8% from beyond the arc. Veesaar is the only player nationwide with at least 40 dunks and 25 3-pointers, showcasing his versatility.
In the previous matchup against Syracuse, he delivered a strong performance with 17 points and 11 rebounds.
As game time approaches, the Tar Heels will be eagerly awaiting the final word on Veesaar’s availability. His return could be pivotal in their quest to maintain momentum in the ACC standings.