UNC Tar Heels Look to Extend Winning Streak Against Struggling Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

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ICARO Media Group
News
30/01/2024 20h36

The University of North Carolina Tar Heels are riding high with a 10-game winning streak as they prepare to face off against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. This matchup marks the midway point of ACC play for the Tar Heels and their sixth road game in January.

UNC's recent victory over Florida State showcased the team's resilience and composure, with coach Hubert Davis praising their calm and confident demeanor. The Tar Heels have been dominant on the road this season, boasting a perfect 5-0 record away from home during ACC league play. Their success has propelled them to a 9-0 start in conference play, giving them a two-game lead at the top of the ACC standings.

Guard RJ Davis emphasized the importance of tough road games, believing they prepare the team for the challenges of March. UNC's winning momentum has been fueled by their exceptional performance in January, winning all eight games this month. This marks the first time since January 2017 that the Tar Heels have achieved such a feat.

The upcoming game against Georgia Tech is anticipated to be a sold-out event, with the home team promoting a "white-out" at McCamish Pavilion. The Yellow Jackets, led by first-year coach Damon Stoudamire, started the season on shaky ground but showed promise with impressive wins over ranked opponents Mississippi State and Duke. However, since the restart of ACC play, Georgia Tech has struggled, losing eight of their last nine games.

UNC guard Elliot Cadeau has been a catalyst for the Tar Heels. Initially known for his passing abilities, Cadeau has recently found his scoring touch. In the win against Florida State, he poured in a season-high 16 points. Cadeau's consistent performances have helped maintain the Tar Heels' winning streak, averaging 10 points and 4.8 assists per game over the past six games.

Georgia Tech's freshmen duo, Naithan George and Baye Ndongo, have made an immediate impact for the Yellow Jackets. Ndongo has been a scoring force, averaging 13.3 points per game and scoring in double figures in 12 consecutive games. George has showcased his playmaking skills, leading Georgia Tech with 5.1 assists per game.

However, Georgia Tech's Achilles heel has been their defense. The Yellow Jackets have struggled to contain opponents, allowing an average of 75.9 points per game, the second-worst in the ACC. In conference play, their defensive efficiency has been the lowest in the ACC, surrendering an average of 83.4 points per game.

As the Tar Heels hold a commanding lead in the series history between the two teams, they aim to continue their dominance. UNC has won three consecutive meetings against Georgia Tech and is 12-3 in the last 15 matchups. Their last encounter resulted in a decisive 75-59 victory for the Tar Heels.

With their impressive winning streak and strong performances, UNC enters the matchup as the clear favorite. As they strive to maintain their perfect January record, the Tar Heels will look to exploit Georgia Tech's defensive vulnerabilities and assert their dominance on the road once again.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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