By Miguel Mike Medina
Photo: Maggie Hobson
Jalen Washington’s go-ahead dunk and clutch defensive play helped the UNC Tar Heels to a 63-61 victory over the rival NC State Wolfpacks.
https://twitter.com/UNC_Basketball/status/1878216594242801937
With the game tied 61-61, Elliot Cadeau made a nice pass to Washington, who dunked it to give the Tar Heels a 63-61 lead with 25 seconds left to go.
Wolfpacks’ guard Jayden Taylor tried to tie the game, but Washington blocked his shot.
Washington recorded his first career double-double. He finished with 11 points and 12 rebounds. Ian Jackson led the Tar Heels with 21 points.
Washington spoke with the media after the game to discuss the final possession.
“I was on the weak side,” Washington said. “As soon as he put it up, he couldn’t get to the rim.”
Washington was very enthusiastic about the victory. The win and his performance down the stretch boosted his confidence. He has heard the noise about his performance and tries to avoid negative criticism.
“People are going to say negative stuff all the time,” Washington said. “I control what I can control.”
Coach Hubert Davis and the rest of the fan base want to see this version of Washington night in and night out. After the game, Davis spoke with the media to share his thoughts on Cadeau’s incredible pass that led to Washignton’s dunk.
“He has an elite vision,” Davis said. “He can see things that normal players can’t see and get the ball to him. It wasn’t the play, and NC State played it well, but the way they played it opened up for J. Wash underneath the basket.”
It’s a hostile environment to play at NC State. UNC showed growth and maturity in this game. The team must clean up on the rebounding side and in other areas of its performance. The Tar Heels executed solidly, especially on defense.
UNC improves to 11-6. Their next game will be against California at home on Wednesday night.
Miguel Mike Medina is the publisher of The MMM Journal. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com and themmmjournal@gmail.com
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