College basketball fans across the country know one thing: Caleb Wilson is the best player at the University of North Carolina. North Carolina plays without Wilson on Saturday as the last-place Pitt Panthers come to town.
To make matters worse for the Tar Heels, Henry Vissar is also out for Saturday’s game. Fans didn’t learn the news until just before the game, when Vissar was battling illness and a lower-body injury.
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Led by two of its top players, UNC responded in the best way possible from Tuesday’s loss to Miami (Fla.), with every player on the roster stepping up as UNC won 79-65 in the afternoon session.
Jarin Stevenson is currently playing some of his best basketball in a North Carolina State (20-5, 8-4 ACC) uniform, recording a team-high 36 minutes and a career-high performance. Stevenson scored 19 points, his most in a Tar Heels uniform, and also added three rebounds, two assists and a block.
Zayden High had the best game of his life in 32 minutes after playing a total of 31 minutes in UNC’s previous nine games. He set career highs with 15 points and seven rebounds while not fouling as North Carolina was left with just two frontcourt options.
Seth Trimble tied Stevenson for the Tar Heels’ single-game high with 19 points, and Luka Bogavac continued his performance with 15 points. UNC continued to improve its free throw shooting (10 of 13, 82%) while leading 16-4 in fast break points.
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Hopefully Vissar will be back at NC State on Tuesday, but if he can’t go, NC State will be in good hands. While you’re still celebrating today’s win over Pitt (9-17, 2-11 ACC), take a look at the social media reactions below.
Can UNC make it to the playoffs without its two big men?
Based on business.
Lots of happy post-race thoughts
Big victory.
Everyone loves a Tar Heel win!
Zayden High and Jarin Stevenson delivered!
Did this North Carolina fan just predict the future?
Louisville is coming.
Zaden High School is here!
North Carolina basketball at its best!
Now introducing…Zayden High!!
A comfortable, much-needed victory
Bringing Caleb Wilson energy after the big W!
Pete is so miserable
Free throws win games.
We second the motion!
Don’t worry…he’s kidding (read comments)
great response to adversity
You enjoyed meeting General Wilson!
A great victory without two top players
This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: UNC Basketball: Social media reaction to Saturday’s big win against Pitt