Derek Dixon Steps Into the Spotlight as Tar Heels Find Their Groove
CHAPEL HILL - Something’s clicking for Derek Dixon, and it’s more than just his jumper.
The 6-foot-5 freshman guard out of Virginia has been on the radar since his clutch showing at Kentucky earlier this season, but now, midway through conference play, it feels like he’s starting to truly settle into his role - and maybe even claim a bigger one.
Wednesday night’s blowout win over Notre Dame was more than just a statement for No. 22 North Carolina. It was a showcase for Dixon, who poured in 11 points, grabbed three boards, and dished out a pair of assists in a game where the Tar Heels looked every bit the team they’re trying to become.
“I think it’s just been a change,” Dixon said after the 91-69 win. “Coming into the game, I’m a little more warm, and you don’t have those minutes on the bench.
Then, just trying to be a leader out there. I just gotta use my voice.”
That voice - and his shooting stroke - echoed loudly in the Smith Center. Dixon knocked down three triples, part of a season-high 13 made threes for UNC. Eight different players connected from deep, tying a program record and showing just how well the ball was moving.
“I got some really good looks,” Dixon said. “Caleb (Wilson) made some really good passes.
I think we moved the ball really well. When I get an open look, I’m gonna be confident that I’m gonna knock it down.”
Confidence is key, and Dixon’s been playing like a guy who’s earning more of it with every possession. Over the last two games - both starts - he’s averaging 28 minutes, his most extended run as a Tar Heel. He’s also averaging 12.5 points in those games, shooting a scorching 55% from deep with seven made threes.
“He’s shooting lights out,” said center Henri Veesaar, who had a double-double of his own with 15 points and 12 rebounds. “He’s taking control of the game, he’s not turning the ball over much.
He’s just running the offense, and we just need to move the ball. When we play from side to side, we play great.”
That movement - that flow - has been a hallmark of UNC when they’re at their best. And Dixon’s emergence is helping unlock that rhythm. His ability to stretch the floor, handle the ball, and make smart decisions gives the Tar Heels a different dynamic in the backcourt.
Head coach Hubert Davis clearly noticed. He rolled out a starting lineup against Notre Dame that featured Dixon alongside senior captain Seth Trimble and first-time starter Jaydon Young. It was the same trio that sparked UNC’s comeback bid at Cal, a game the Heels ultimately dropped but one that showed flashes of potential - especially from Dixon, who buried three second-half threes in that one.
Against Notre Dame, there was no need for a comeback. The Heels led wire to wire, building a 29-point cushion midway through the second half and never letting the Irish sniff a rally.
“What we really wanted to do was get a good win under our belt, blow ‘em out like we did,” Dixon said. “We really tried to come in here and make a point.”
And make a point he did.
With back-to-back strong performances and a growing sense of command on the court, Derek Dixon is making a compelling case to keep his spot in the starting five. He’s not just filling a role - he’s shaping it. And if his recent play is any indication, the Tar Heels might have found something real in their freshman guard.