Social media reacts to UNC beating Syracuse on Monday night

Remember the last time a UNC win didn’t satisfy fans? If you guessed Monday night, after the Tar Heels’ closer-than-expected 87-77 victory against Syracuse, you are correct.

Despite leading by 32 points halfway through the second half, North Carolina (18-4, 6-3 ACC) watched that lead dwindle down to six with a minute left. The Tar Heels took their foot off the gas, allowing the struggling Orange (13-10, 4-6 ACC) a chance to complete an improbable comeback.

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UNC closed the game with four free throws, thanks to two makes apiece from Jarin Stevenson and Seth Trimble. North Carolina’s aggressiveness paid off, converting of 25 of 35 (71 percent) trips to the free throw line.

The Tar Heels enjoyed a solid shooting night, making 48% of their field goal attempts, which included a 44% mark from deep. UNC enjoyed another night of solid perimeter defense, limiting the Orange (13-10, 4-6 ACC) to just six makes.

Henri Veesaar enjoyed another solid night in the paint, scoring 17 points and recording 11 rebounds, surpassing Caleb Wilson for most double-doubles in the ACC. Wilson scored North Carolina’s first four points, later ending his night with a team-high 22.

Bench production played a major role in the Tar Heels’ win, with Luka Bogavac and Jonathan Powell combining for 22 points. Powell nailed a UNC-best three trifectas, while Bogavac enjoyed his third-straight game in double-digits.

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Sure, North Carolina’s ending is concerning, but a win is a win. Take a look at several social media reactions from across Tar Heel Nation.

Tonight’s ending can’t happen against Duke