A nail-biting showdown at the Dean E. Smith Center saw No. 17 North Carolina triumph over Wake Forest with a final score of 87-84 on January 10, 2026. This game wasn't just a win; it marked a significant milestone for the Tar Heels.
Henri Veesaar was a force to be reckoned with, scoring 25 points and grabbing 9 rebounds, while Caleb Wilson showcased his dominance with 22 points and 12 rebounds, achieving his 11th double-double of the season. Jaydon Young added a valuable 12 points off the bench. This victory was particularly sweet for North Carolina, as it marked their 500th win at the iconic Dean E. Smith Center, a testament to their enduring legacy.
But here's where it gets interesting: Wake Forest, despite the loss, put up a fierce fight. Nate Calmese was on fire, sinking seven 3-pointers and finishing with 28 points and 9 assists. Juke Harris also contributed 28 points with five 3-pointers.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Wake Forest trailing by 15 points at one point. Calmese's clutch 3-pointer brought them within a single point with just over 4 minutes remaining. However, key dunks from Seth Trimble and Veesaar helped UNC maintain their lead. The tension was palpable until the final seconds when Jarin Stevenson sealed the deal with two crucial free throws.
And this is the part most people miss: Wilson's first-half performance was outstanding, with 17 points and 9 rebounds, making every single shot.
The Tar Heels' record at the Smith Center now stands at 500-90 since it opened in 1986.
Upcoming Games:
- Wake Forest will face Florida State next Saturday.
- North Carolina will play Stanford on Wednesday.
What are your thoughts on the game? Did you think Wake Forest could pull off the upset? Share your opinions in the comments below!
