The North Carolina Tar Heels are gearing up for a showdown against the Louisville Cardinals tonight at the Smith Center in Chapel Hill. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. ET, and fans can catch all the action on ESPN or stream it via Fubo.
Currently ranked No. 20 in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll and No. 16 in the AP Top 25, the Tar Heels boast a 21-6 record overall, with a 9-5 mark in ACC play. However, they'll be missing their standout freshman, Caleb Wilson, due to a fractured hand. This marks the fourth game he'll be sidelined, which could pose a challenge against the 21st-ranked Cardinals, who share an identical 9-5 conference record.
Historically, the Tar Heels have dominated Louisville at home, holding a 6-1 record at the Smith Center. Yet, the Cardinals, under second-year coach Pat Kelsey, have proven they can be a formidable opponent, having bested the Heels in their last encounter.
For those tuning in, Dave O’Brien, Jay Williams, and Molly McGrath will provide the commentary on ESPN. Meanwhile, local fans can enjoy the radio broadcast on 97.9 FM, with Jones Angell calling the game and insights from Tar Heel legends Tyler Hansbrough and Tyler Zeller.
As for the matchup itself, the Tar Heels have been a fortress at home this season. However, without Wilson, they'll need to find a way to counter Louisville's dynamic backcourt, which has been known to light up the scoreboard from beyond the arc. The odds are tight, but the Cardinals are slightly favored, with a predicted scoreline of Louisville 84, UNC 76.
Looking at the Tar Heels' season so far, they've had impressive wins against teams like Kansas and Ohio State but have stumbled in a few key road games. Tonight's clash will be crucial as they aim to solidify their standing in the ACC and build momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting contest between two ACC powerhouses.