The 55-year-old coach, a former Tar Heel himself, has now led the program for four seasons, reaching the NCAA Tournament three times. After making the national title game in 2021-22, UNC missed the tournament the following year. They bounced back to reach the Sweet 16 in 2024 but suffered a first-round exit last season. With just one NCAA Tournament win in the past three seasons, the pressure is mounting in Chapel Hill. A strong non-conference slate could ease that tension, and the Tar Heels have plenty of marquee opportunities before ACC play begins in the New Year.
Getting it Started
Monday, Nov. 3 vs. Central Arkansas
The season opener gives UNC a chance to start strong against a rebuilding Bears program. Expect the Dean Dome crowd to see plenty of minutes for young Tar Heel talent.
Friday, Nov. 7 vs. Kansas Jayhawks
A headline matchup early in the season. The Jayhawks beat UNC last year in Lawrence, and this game offers the Tar Heels a chance for revenge. It’s also a rematch of the 2022 national title game, one Davis surely hasn’t forgotten.
Tuesday, Nov. 11 vs. Radford
Radford comes in as a mid-major with experience, but this is a game UNC should handle if they play disciplined basketball.
Friday, Nov. 14 vs. North Carolina Central
An in-state showdown that doubles as a tune-up. The Eagles will bring energy, but the Tar Heels’ size and depth should prevail.
Tuesday, Nov. 18 vs. Navy
The Midshipmen pride themselves on toughness and defense. This matchup is a good early test of UNC’s offensive flow.
Tuesday, Nov. 25 vs. St. Bonaventure (Fort Myers, FL)
The Bonnies are always dangerous in November tournaments. UNC must stay focused during this pre-Thanksgiving trip.
Thursday, Nov. 27 vs. Michigan State (Fort Myers, FL)
A heavyweight battle. The Spartans outlasted UNC in overtime last year, and Davis will be eager for payback. North Carolina leads the all-time series 7-4.
December Battles
Tuesday, Dec. 2 vs. Kentucky
One of college basketball’s blue-blood rivalries. Kentucky has won two straight in the series, including their last meeting in 2023. Having the Wildcats in Chapel Hill makes this one of the most anticipated games of the year.
Sunday, Dec. 7 vs. Georgetown
The Hoyas haven’t faced UNC since 2007, when they scored 96 in a win. With Georgetown rebuilding, this is a must-win for the Tar Heels.
Saturday, Dec. 13 vs. South Carolina Upstate
A softer mid-December matchup where the Tar Heels should fine-tune rotations and give minutes to the bench.
Tuesday, Dec. 16 vs. East Tennessee State
The Buccaneers are no stranger to pulling upsets, but UNC should control this one at home.
Saturday, Dec. 20 vs. Ohio State (Atlanta, GA)
The CBS Sports Classic pits UNC against the Buckeyes at State Farm Arena. The Tar Heels lead the all-time series 6-1, including a dramatic OT win in 2022.
Monday, Dec. 22 vs. East Carolina
The final non-conference game before Christmas. The Pirates will push tempo, but UNC should head into ACC play with a win.
Big season Upcoming
The Tar Heels went 23-14 last season and 13-7 in ACC play, but the program is desperate to reclaim its championship form. With powerhouse opponents like Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan State, and Ohio State on the schedule, Hubert Davis has both a challenge and an opportunity in front of him.
Can UNC turn these non-conference battles into momentum for March? Tar Heel Nation is certainly ready to find out.
