Tar Heels Begin ACC Tournament Run Against FSU
UNC Aims to Extend Win Streak in Charlotte
The University of North Carolina Tar Heels tip off their 2025 ACC Tournament journey on Wednesday, March 12, facing off against the Florida State Seminoles in the quarterfinals at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, NC. For UNC basketball fans, this matchup marks the start of a postseason quest to reclaim the ACC crown, last won in 2016. With a seven-game win streak on the line—bolstered by a recent 78-74 victory over Duke on March 8, 2025—UNC is poised to make a statement in this high-stakes opener.
UNC Basketball's Momentum Heading Into the Tournament
UNC basketball enters the ACC Tournament as a top seed, riding a wave of momentum after a stellar regular season. Their latest triumph over arch-rival Duke showcased their resilience, with key contributions from across the roster. The Tar Heels' current seven-game win streak, their longest of the 2024-25 campaign, includes a dominant 91-59 road win against Virginia Tech and a balanced attack that's become Coach Hubert Davis' signature. Facing Florida State, UNC aims to extend that streak to eight, setting the tone for a deep tournament run.
A Look Back: UNC's Past Success Against FSU
UNC basketball has a strong historical edge over Florida State, including a memorable 92-67 rout in the 2024 ACC Tournament quarterfinals in Washington, DC That game saw the Tar Heels out-rebound the Seminoles 48-22, with Armando Bacot and RJ Davis leading the charge. In the 2024-25 regular season, UNC swept FSU in two tight contests: a 75-68 win in Tallahassee and a 78-70 victory in Chapel Hill. These past wins highlight UNC's ability to handle FSU's athleticism, a trend they'll look to continue on March 12.
Key Players to Watch for UNC Basketball
The Tar Heels' success hinges on their star-studded lineup. Jae'Lyn Withers, now a seasoned veteran, has been a revelation, shooting lights-out from three-point range during the win streak. His versatility could exploit FSU's defense, which struggled against UNC's perimeter game in prior meetings. Meanwhile, freshman sensation Elliot Cadeau brings speed and playmaking, while Harrison Ingram's rebounding tenacity anchors the frontcourt. For Florida State, Jamir Watkins—whose 34-point outburst stunned Virginia Tech in 2024—remains a wildcard UNC must contain.
Stakes for a Semifinal Berth
This quarterfinal clash isn't just about advancing; it's about positioning UNC basketball for ACC dominance and NCAA Tournament seeding. A win secures a semifinal berth on March 13, 2025, likely against a formidable foe like Pittsburgh or Wake Forest. For UNC, ranked among the nation's elite, every postseason victory strengthens their case for a No. 1 seed in March Madness. Florida State, meanwhile, enters as an underdog, needing a Cinderella run to salvage their season and earn an NCAA bid after a middling ACC campaign.
How to Watch UNC Basketball vs. Florida State
- Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM ET (projected based on typical quarterfinal scheduling)
- Location: Spectrum Center, Charlotte, NC
- TV: ESPN or ESPN2 (subject to final ACC broadcast schedule)
- Streaming: ESPN app with a cable subscription
UNC basketball fans in Charlotte and beyond will pack the stands and screens, eager to see if the Tar Heels can kick off their title chase with authority.
Predictions for UNC vs. FSU
Given UNC's current form and historical edge, the Tar Heels are favored to prevail. Their balanced scoring and rebounding prowess should overwhelm an FSU squad that's struggled for consistency. Expect Withers and Cadeau to shine, with UNC pulling away in the second half. Prediction: UNC 82, Florida State 68. The Tar Heels' depth and experience should prove too much for the Seminoles in this Charlotte showdown.
UNC Basketball's Bigger Picture
A victory over FSU sets UNC basketball on a collision course with the ACC's best, with the ultimate goal of cutting down the nets on March 15, 2025. Coach Davis has preached focus and desperation, traits that carried UNC to the 2022 NCAA Final Four. As the Tar Heels eye their 19th ACC Tournament title, this opener against Florida State is the first step toward etching their name in 2025 lore.
Why UNC Basketball Fans Should Tune In
For UNC faithful, this game is more than a quarterfinal—it's a chance to see their team assert dominance in a tournament they've historically owned. With a raucous Charlotte crowd behind them, the Tar Heels have all the ingredients for a memorable run. Will this be the year UNC basketball reclaims its ACC throne? It all starts against FSU.
Get Hyped for UNC Basketball in March
As tip-off nears, UNC basketball stands ready to unleash its full potential. Whether you're courtside at the Spectrum Center or cheering from home, March 12, 2025, promises a thrilling chapter in the Tar Heels' season. Stay locked in as UNC battles Florida State—because in Chapel Hill, every game is a step toward greatness!
