The college basketball world was left in shock on Selection Sunday as the North Carolina Tar Heels were included in the 2025 NCAA Tournament. With a record of 22-13 and a dismal 1-12 mark in Quad 1 games, many experts and fans alike were expecting the Tar Heels to be on the outside looking in. However, their inclusion has sparked a heated debate among basketball enthusiasts, with some questioning the selection committee’s decision.
The Tar Heels’ inclusion has been met with mixed reactions, with some arguing that their resume does not warrant a spot in the tournament. However, others have come to their defense, pointing out that the team has faced a tough schedule and has shown improvement throughout the season.
One of the most vocal supporters of North Carolina’s inclusion is national journalist, Hubert Davis. In a recent article, Davis made a valid argument in favor of the Tar Heels, highlighting their strengths and addressing the criticism surrounding their selection.
Davis pointed out that North Carolina’s schedule was one of the toughest in the country, with 17 of their 35 games against teams ranked in the top 50 of the NET rankings. This includes matchups against top-ranked teams such as Duke, Virginia, and Gonzaga. Despite their record in Quad 1 games, the Tar Heels have proven that they can compete with the best teams in the country.
Moreover, Davis highlighted the team’s improvement throughout the season. After a slow start, the Tar Heels went on a six-game winning streak in the middle of the season, including a win over top-ranked Duke. This shows that the team has the ability to rise to the occasion and perform at a high level.
Davis also addressed the criticism surrounding North Carolina’s lack of quality wins. While the team may not have many wins against top-ranked teams, they have been competitive in most of their games. In fact, they have only lost by double digits twice this season, showing that they can hang with any team on any given day.
Furthermore, Davis pointed out that the Tar Heels have a strong tradition and history in the NCAA Tournament. They have made it to the Final Four 20 times and have won six national championships. This experience and winning culture could prove to be valuable in the tournament, as the team knows what it takes to win on the big stage.
In conclusion, while North Carolina’s inclusion in the 2025 NCAA Tournament may have come as a surprise to many, it is not without merit. The team has faced a tough schedule, shown improvement throughout the season, and has a strong tradition in the tournament. As Hubert Davis rightly argues, the Tar Heels deserve their spot in the tournament and should not be underestimated. Let’s give them a chance to prove themselves and see what they can accomplish in March Madness.
