When Jae’Lyn Withers took his infamous 3-point attempt in UNC’s Sweet 16 loss to Alabama last year, many fans had a negative taste in their mouth.
With North Carolina leading 85-84, Withers, who shot just 20 percent from deep, launched a wide-open shot. The Crimson Tide pulled down a rebound and – moments later – took the lead for good on Grant Nelson’s layup.
After the Tar Heels’ 90-76 victory over Elon in their season-opener on Monday, fans should have a positive feeling about Withers.
Getting an unexpected start, Withers delivered in major fashion, showcasing he can be a crucial part of North Carolina’s success by recording a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double.
Withers shot 4-of-10 from the field, but what’s even more encouraging is that he made two of three attempts from beyond the perimeter. Withers also showcased his abilities as a ball-handler and passer, generating an assist and one of UNC’s 11 steals.
It took Withers until January 17 this year to record his first double-double, when he scored 15 points and grabbed 10 rebounds against Louisville, where he transferred from ahead of the 2023-2024 college basketball season.
Withers’ usage in Monday’s opener also points to him having an increased role throughout the upcoming year. Withers played 22 minutes, the most out of any Tar Heel post players. Jalen Washington played 21 minutes, Vanderbilt transfer Ven-Allen Lubin played 17 and Belmont transfer Cade Tyson played 16.
Withers started 79 percent of the games he appeared in at Louisville, but has started just 10.5 percent of his games as a Tar Heel.
If Withers continues to play like he did Monday night, we’ll be hearing the North Carolina native’s name called a lot more in the starting lineup.
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