As North Carolina gears up for a heated in-state rivalry showdown with NC State, head coach Hubert Davis took the mic during the weekly ACC coaches teleconference to offer some timely updates and insights. With the Tar Heels sitting at 20-5 (8-4 ACC) and the Wolfpack close behind at 18-8 (9-4), Tuesday night’s matchup in Raleigh is shaping up to be a pivotal one in the ACC standings.
Here’s what stood out from Davis’ 10-minute media session ahead of the clash at the Lenovo Center.
Injury Update: Henri Veesaar Trending Up
UNC’s frontcourt depth has been tested, but there’s reason for optimism regarding Henri Veesaar. The sophomore big man has been dealing with a combination of illness and a lower-extremity injury, but Davis said he’s seeing steady progress.
“He continues to feel better and get better,” Davis noted. “We’ve got practice this afternoon, and we’ll re-evaluate and see how he’s doing.”
Davis added that Veesaar has shown improvement on both fronts - physically and in terms of energy. While it’s still a day-to-day situation, the tone was cautiously optimistic. If Veesaar is able to suit up, even in limited minutes, it could give UNC a valuable boost in the paint against a physical NC State squad.
Jarin Stevenson Finding His Stride
One of the more encouraging developments for UNC has been the emergence of freshman forward Jarin Stevenson. At 6’10”, Stevenson has always had the tools, but over the past few weeks, he’s started to put it all together - especially on the offensive end.
Davis pointed to Stevenson’s assertiveness against Pitt as a sign of growth.
“Since the Ohio State or maybe even the SMU game, he’s been in a better rhythm, more comfortable, more confident on the offensive end,” Davis said. “I just love when he’s aggressive - in practice, in games.
He takes good shots, makes the right plays. He’s just a really good player.”
Stevenson’s defensive instincts have been reliable from the start, but when he’s attacking the rim and playing with confidence, he becomes a matchup problem. His ability to stretch the floor while also finishing around the basket gives UNC another dynamic scoring option, and Davis made it clear: when Stevenson is aggressive, the Tar Heels’ offense hits another gear.
Scouting NC State: Disruptive Defense, Balanced Scoring
Davis had plenty of praise for the Wolfpack, and it started with their defense.
“They do a really good job of getting steals and deflections,” Davis said. “They disrupt you. They don’t allow you to get comfortable or stay in rhythm.”
That defensive pressure has been a calling card for NC State all season, and it’s something UNC will have to navigate carefully - especially in a hostile road environment.
But it’s not just defense that makes the Wolfpack dangerous. Davis highlighted their offensive versatility as well.
“They can really shoot the basketball,” he said. “A number of guys can get hot and stay hot from the perimeter, but they also get consistent points in the paint.”
That inside-out balance forces teams to pick their poison. Whether it’s perimeter shooters catching fire or post players grinding out buckets, NC State has the personnel to score in multiple ways - and that’s what makes them a tough out.
The Quadir Copeland Factor
One player who’s really caught Davis’ eye is NC State guard Quadir Copeland. The comparison? Former Tar Heel fan-favorite Theo Pinson - and that’s no small compliment.
“Quadir reminds me a lot of Theo with his ability to make plays - not just for himself, but for his teammates,” Davis said. “He’s got a good understanding of when to pass and when to shoot. He takes good shots and does a good job of taking care of the basketball.”
At 6’6”, Copeland brings size to the point guard spot, which makes him a unique challenge to defend. Like Pinson, he’s a facilitator who can also score when needed. His feel for the game - knowing when to drive, dish, or pull up - is what sets him apart.
What’s at Stake
With both teams jostling for position near the top of the ACC, Tuesday’s game isn’t just about bragging rights - it’s about momentum, seeding, and setting the tone for the stretch run. UNC is coming off a convincing home win over Pitt, while NC State has quietly built a strong conference resume of its own.
Expect a high-energy, physical battle between two teams that know each other well. And with players like Stevenson stepping into bigger roles and Copeland emerging as a key piece for the Wolfpack, there’s no shortage of intriguing matchups.
Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. on ESPN. You’ll want to be locked in for this one.