It wouldn’t be an end to another UNC basketball season without a disappointing loss.
At least, that’s what has been the theme in recent years.
On Thursday, March 28, North Carolina’s once-promising year ended in the Sweet 16 with an 89-87 loss against Alabama. This was a game the Tar Heels should’ve won – 8-point halftime lead, late second-half advantage even with RJ Davis’ cold night, a chance to go up by three with under a minute.
Despite missing a couple of costly shots that could’ve put the game away, including two wide-open dunks, Armando Bacot registered yet another double-double with 19 points and 12 rebounds.
It was Bacot’s 87th career double-double, tying him with fellow ACC great and NBA Hall-of-Famer Tim Duncan.
With 17 points & 11 rebounds tonight, Armando Bacot has his 87th career double-double.
He ties Tim Duncan for most career double-doubles in ACC history and for second all-time in NCAA history. pic.twitter.com/eVxmmM1q6d
— Carolina Basketball Stats & Info (@UNCMBBStats) March 29, 2024
For reference on how special this mark was, Duncan was a 5-time NBA Champion with the San Antonio Spurs. He made the NBA All-Star Team 15 times, was named All-NBA First Team 10 times and an 8-time member of the NBA All-Defensive First Team.
It’s going to be weird not seeing Bacot in a UNC uniform next season, but I have no doubt he’ll be playing elsewhere.
Follow us @TarHeelsWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of North Carolina Tar Heels news, notes and opinions.