UNC Survives Exam Week Grind, Led by Caleb Wilson’s Dominant Double-Double
Let’s be real-on most nights, North Carolina’s sluggish showing against USC Upstate would’ve sparked more than a few raised eyebrows. But given the timing, this one deserves a little context.
It’s exam week in Chapel Hill, and if you’ve ever been around a college program during finals, you know how much that can weigh on a team. Practices get lighter, legs get heavier, and focus can drift.
That’s not an excuse-it’s just reality. Even elite programs like Carolina aren’t immune to the mental and physical toll that comes with juggling academics and basketball.
But despite the general haze that hung over the Tar Heels’ performance, one player cut right through it: Caleb Wilson.
The freshman forward continues to play like a seasoned vet, and on this night, he was the steadying force UNC needed. Wilson notched his seventh double-double of the season-more than any other player in the ACC-with 20 points and 11 rebounds, both game highs.
And it wasn’t just the box score that told the story. His poise under pressure, particularly when USC Upstate sent double teams his way, stood out.
He made smart reads, dished out three assists, and kept the offense flowing when things got bogged down.
That ability to pass out of pressure is going to be a major weapon for Wilson as the season rolls on. Opposing defenses are already keying in on him, and the more he makes them pay for overcommitting, the more dangerous this Tar Heel offense becomes.
Another bright spot? Jonathan Powell.
The West Virginia transfer had his breakout moment in Carolina blue, matching his career high with 17 points. He was efficient from deep-knocking down 3-of-6 from beyond the arc-and added two steals on the defensive end.
For a team still working to build consistency off the bench, Powell’s performance was a welcome sign.
And with Seth Trimble expected back soon, UNC’s depth could be trending in the right direction at just the right time.
All told, it wasn’t a masterpiece from the Tar Heels-but it didn’t need to be. They handled their business during a tough week on the calendar, leaned on their rising star in Wilson, and got a glimpse of what Powell can bring to the rotation. That’s the kind of win that won’t make headlines, but might matter more than it seems when we look back later in the season.