Written by MARK FRANK for the Associated Press

On Tuesday night, Syracuse surprised No. 7 North Carolina with a final score of 86-79. Judah Mintz and JJ Starling led the team in points, with 25 and 23 respectively. Starling scored 13 of his points in the second half, while Mintz scored 16 in the same timeframe.

The University of North Carolina (19-6, 11-3 in the Atlantic Coast Conference) had a rough start to the second half, missing their first 10 shots and falling behind 52-43. However, they were able to make a comeback and take a 65-64 lead with 7:16 left on the clock thanks to a layup by RJ Davis. Despite this effort, Syracuse (16-9, 7-7), who suffered a major loss of 103-67 against UNC in their previous matchup, refused to be defeated.

Starling made a clutch 3-pointer to put the Orange back in the lead at 67-65 with less than seven minutes remaining. Mintz scored on a layup, jumper, and two free throws, extending the Orange’s lead to 73-67. Starling then scored another 3-pointer to give Syracuse a 76-69 advantage after Harrison Ingram’s jumper with less than three minutes left.

Syracuse made successful free throws in the final moments to secure their victory.

Maliq Brown scored 14 points and grabbed six rebounds for Syracuse, while Chris Bell contributed 13 points.

Davis was the top scorer for North Carolina, recording 19 points. Cormac Ryan followed closely with 18 points, while Armando Bacot and Harrison Ingram each contributed 14 points.

BIG PICTURE

The Tar Heels suffered their second defeat in three matches in North Carolina. The team will need to improve their defense.

Syracuse achieved the victory they were seeking and it provides the team with momentum as they approach the end of the season.

UP NEXT:

The upcoming Saturday, North Carolina will be hosting Virginia Tech.

This Saturday, go to Georgia Tech for a trip to Syracuse.

Source: wralsportsfan.com