BREAKING: CAROLINA WINS! Tar Heels Storm Back to Stun Duke 78–73 in OT Thriller at Wells Fargo Center – Carolina Family Erupts…Read More….

BREAKING: CAROLINA WINS! Tar Heels Storm Back to Stun Duke 78–73 in OT Thriller at Wells Fargo Center – Carolina Family Erupts…Read More….

In a game that will live in rivalry lore for years to come, North Carolina delivered a breathtaking comeback and stunned Duke 78–73 in overtime on Saturday night at the Wells Fargo Center. What began as a frustrating, turnover-filled struggle for the Tar Heels evolved into one of the most resilient performances of the season — and one of the most emotionally charged UNC–Duke clashes in recent memory.

Before a split arena roaring with blue on both sides, the Tar Heels overcame a double-digit second-half deficit, tightened the defensive screws when it mattered most, and leaned on their veterans to seize control in the extra period. What looked like a certain Duke victory unraveled in the final minutes as Carolina’s toughness, shot-making, and composure took over.

The hero of the night was junior guard RJ Davis, who finished with a game-high 28 points, including the game-tying jumper with 19 seconds left in regulation. Davis, who struggled early from the floor, found his rhythm at the perfect time, scoring 14 of Carolina’s final 22 points. His step-back three to open overtime sent the UNC bench into a frenzy and shifted momentum permanently.

Supporting him was Harrison Ingram, the do-everything forward who posted 17 points and 11 rebounds, dominating the glass and repeatedly punishing Duke on second-chance opportunities. Ingram’s physicality in the paint was essential, especially in overtime when he secured back-to-back offensive rebounds that led directly to points.

For Duke, the night was a painful collapse. Freshman sensation Cooper Flagg dazzled early with 20 points and a series of highlight blocks, but the Blue Devils’ offense sputtered late. Poor shot selection, empty possessions, and costly turnovers allowed UNC to chip away at what had once been a comfortable lead. Duke scored just five points in overtime, all from the free-throw line, and went 0-for-6 from the field in the extra period.

UNC’s defense deserves much of the credit. After allowing Duke to shoot over 50% for most of the first half, the Tar Heels held the Blue Devils to just 33% after the break. Armando Bacot, battling foul trouble, still impacted the game with rim protection and leadership, finishing with 10 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 blocks — two of which came in overtime.

The atmosphere inside the Wells Fargo Center was electric throughout the night, but the eruption from the Carolina crowd after the final buzzer was unmatched. Fans, players, and even staff members embraced in tears and shouts as “Carolina! Carolina!” echoed throughout the arena. For a team trying to establish its identity and toughness heading into conference play, this was the defining moment they had been searching for.

With the victory, North Carolina not only strengthens its résumé but also sends a powerful message across college basketball: this team is capable of beating anyone, anywhere, under any circumstance.

For Duke, the loss will sting — especially given how firmly they controlled the game for long stretches. But for the Tar Heels, this night will be remembered as one of the most dramatic chapter turns in the greatest rivalry in sports.

Carolina wins. Carolina fights. Carolina storms back — and the Carolina Family celebrates a moment they’ll talk about for years.