The North Carolina Tar Heels left Fort Myers, Florida, with a split decision—one convincing win and one frustrating loss—during the 2024 Fort Myers Tip-Off. While the team’s overall performance fluctuated from electric to stagnant, one player stood out above the rest: center Henri Veesaar, the quietly emerging force who turned the two-game stretch into a personal statement.
Despite a tough Thanksgiving Day challenge against Michigan State, Veesaar walked away from the tournament as arguably North Carolina’s most consistent and impactful player. His blend of energy, efficiency, and two-way production signaled that the third-year center may be on the verge of a breakout season in Chapel Hill.
Below is a complete breakdown of Veesaar’s performance and what it means for the Tar Heels moving forward.
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A CONSISTENT FORCE IN FORT MYERS
Averages: 18.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.5 steals
Across two games, Veesaar delivered numbers that any program would love to see from its starting center. His 18.5 points and 9.5 rebounds per game weren’t empty stats—they came through high-efficiency shooting, strong positioning, and disciplined decision-making.
More importantly, Veesaar showcased a poised mentality, refusing to be rattled by game flow, opposing runs, or the physicality of veteran competition. His performance served as a stabilizing force for a Tar Heel lineup still molding its identity early in the season.
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CAREER NIGHT AGAINST ST. BONAVENTURE
North Carolina’s 85–70 victory over St. Bonaventure was fueled in large part by Veesaar’s career night, as the 6-foot-11, 224-pound center posted 24 points and 13 rebounds, both personal bests.
The Tar Heels’ ability to penetrate the paint opened doors for Veesaar to operate, and he capitalized at every opportunity. Whether finishing around the basket, cleaning up missed shots, or establishing deep post position, he was a constant interior threat the Bonnies could not contain.
After the game, Veesaar was quick to credit his teammates:
> “I feel like as a team we were moving the ball well,” Veesaar said. “My teammates were finding me, and easy lay-ups gave me an advantage. I was able to take care of that. We were getting good shots, and some of those short rebounds were right there for me to finish.”
He also emphasized the physical component of the matchup:
> “We came out strong in the first half, then had a slump where they were getting offensive rebounds. The biggest thing was hitting first rather than getting hit. Worst case, you stay in the same place—you’re not going to move backwards.”
This attitude—assertive, physical, and team-first—mirrored the way he played: confident, aggressive on the glass, and fully engaged.
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STEADY AGAINST MICHIGAN STATE’S PHYSICALITY
Thursday’s matchup against Michigan State proved to be a different test. The Spartans’ experienced and disciplined defense pushed North Carolina out of rhythm, holding the Tar Heels to only eight points in the final nine minutes of the game.
Even so, Veesaar remained one of the lone bright spots, contributing 13 points and six rebounds while shooting an impressive 6-of-9 from the field, including 1-of-2 from beyond the arc.
While not as dominant as his performance against St. Bonaventure, his ability to stay efficient and poised against a rugged Big Ten defense was notable. The Spartans are known for their physicality, yet Veesaar held his ground, continued to move without the ball, and provided reliable scoring when the offense stalled.
His willingness and ability to stretch the floor also stood out. A center who can knock down threes forces defenses to adjust, and that versatility will be increasingly valuable once ACC play begins in January.
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WHY VEESAAR’S PERFORMANCE MATTERS FOR UNC’S SEASON
Veesaar’s emergence in Fort Myers isn’t just about two good games—it’s a sign of what he could become within the Tar Heels’ system.
1. A Reliable Interior Presence
North Carolina has a long history of dominant frontcourt play. Veesaar’s rebounding instincts, timing, and touch around the rim align perfectly with the program’s traditional strengths.
2. A Floor-Stretching Big
At 6-foot-11, the ability to step out and hit perimeter shots gives UNC a modern offensive wrinkle. It opens lanes for guards, creates mismatches, and forces opposing big men away from the paint.
3. A Composed, High-IQ Player
Veesaar rarely forces shots and makes smart reads—qualities that make him dependable in tight games, particularly in conference play.
4. A Potential Breakout Candidate
If his Fort Myers performance is any indication, Veesaar may be ready to elevate his game to an all-conference level.
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FINAL GRADE: A-
Considering the competition, efficiency, and consistency, Henri Veesaar delivered one of the most impressive two-game stretches of any Tar Heel this season. He not only produced on the stat sheet but also showcased leadership, adaptability, and maturity.
In a tournament where UNC experienced both highs and lows, Veesaar’s steady contributions were essential. If he continues this trajectory, North Carolina’s ceiling becomes significantly higher.
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