WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. --- North Carolina wasn't at its best Tuesday night at Joel Coliseum, but it didn't need to be, either.
UNC beat Wake Forest 68-53 before a split crowd and picked up a second consecutive road ACC win. UNC was solid in stretches, but never spectacular. Carolina was pushed a little into the second half before pulling away.
UNC improved to 19-3 overall and 6-1 in the ACC while Wake dropped to 11-11 and 2-6 in conference play.
The following is the report card for both teams' performances:
UNC offense: Roy Williams' teams have never been fantastic against zones, especially when not hitting from the perimeter, which was the case in this game. The Heels displayed plenty of patience, though, which made up for failing to convert too often. UNC's field goal percent of 31 was its lowest of the season, but it committed just six turnovers. Grade: C-.
Wake offense: There isn't much to it. The Deacons have to make shots on their own often because they got few through their offense. Not a lot of movement off the ball, screening that was taken advantage of, and overall the approach was so-so. Wake converted just 29.6 percent of its shots from the field. Grade: D.
UNC defense: The Heels did a fantastic job of maintaining effort and focus despite an bland atmosphere that can be tough to play at a high level. Wake made just 29.6 percent of its field goal attempts, was just 2-for-18 from 3-point range, and had a really tough time getting good looks. Reggie Bullock did a fine job defensively in his third game as a starter following Dexter Strickland's injury. Grade: A+.
Wake defense: The Demon Deacons did a nice job with their zone. It kept Carolina from getting quick, easy shots around the rim, and few open looks were wide open. Carolina shot 31 percent from the floor, including 4-for-19 from beyond the arc. UNC's talent, length and the amazing skills of its point guard were too much to overcome. Grade: B.
UNC intangibles: When there is little energy in the building, which was the case here at Joel, the Tar Heels need to do a better job of generating their own energy. They played well early but missed a lot of shots – 17 of their first 24 – and their energy slipped a bit. But UNC's 16-1 run in the second half sealed the deal. This was a solid focus win, especially given the circumstances. Grade: A.
Wake intangibles: Wake had lost its previous two home games by a combined 59 points, so give it credit for being ready to play and not letting the lousy atmosphere affect its psyche. The Deacs fought hard, were within six points in the second half, but just wasn't as gifted as the Tar Heels. The awful crowd didn't help the home team, and since it's part of the program that will bring down the overall grade. Grade: C.
