With Henri Veesaar back in action after missing two games, Zayden High returned to the bench for the Tar Heels' 77-64 triumph over Syracuse. However, High's presence was felt during his 19 minutes on the court, until an early exit due to fouling out, capped by a technical foul after a heated exchange with Syracuse's top scorer, Donnie Freeman.
Freeman was also ejected, picking up his second technical of the game. It was an unexpected turn from High, a sophomore forward who has recently emerged as a key player for Hubert Davis's squad following injuries to Veesaar and Caleb Wilson.
After the game, High shed light on the incident, confirming to Tar Heels fans that he was standing up for his teammates. "I didn’t like the way he followed Jarin (Stevenson)," High explained to reporters at the JMA Wireless Dome. "I just kind of checked him a little bit, but it was nothing, we were just competing at the end of the day."
High's actions and words are likely to resonate with UNC supporters. Previously a lesser-known figure on the roster, High has stepped up significantly, averaging 27 minutes, nine points, and nine rebounds per game over the past three matchups, including starts against Pitt and NC State.
A former four-star recruit from Spring Branch, Texas, High has taken time to find his footing at Chapel Hill. Now that he's making his mark, he’s winning over fans not just with his stats, but also with his protective stance towards Stevenson, a crucial player for UNC.
The incident in question took place shortly before High's technical foul. As Stevenson grabbed a rebound, Freeman brought him down hard. While Stevenson escaped injury, High's reaction underscored his commitment to team solidarity.
Although Wilson and Veesaar's injuries weren't the result of foul play, High's willingness to play the role of a physical enforcer in the frontcourt might just ensure his continued presence in the lineup, even with Wilson's return. Looking ahead, High could become a mainstay for the Tar Heels, both this season and beyond.