What once looked like a controlled performance nearly unraveled late, as the Tar Heels saw a 15-point second-half lead shrink to just one in the final minute before executing just enough to close out the victory, 87-84.

For much of the night, North Carolina Tar Heels appeared to be in firm command. UNC shot 52 percent from the field, controlled the glass with a 38–29 rebounding edge, and built its lead by consistently scoring inside while limiting Wake Forest’s transition chances. Caleb Wilson led the way with 22 points and 12 rebounds, providing steady production on both ends. Henri Veesaar added 25 points on 9-of-10 shooting, continuing his strong recent stretch in the frontcourt.

That control faded down the stretch.

Wake Forest gradually clawed back behind sharper execution and timely shooting. The Demon Deacons capitalized on UNC turnovers — the Tar Heels committed 14 giveaways, several coming during the decisive run — and extended possessions with offensive rebounds. Wake Forest Demon Deacons cut the lead possession by possession, eventually pulling within three points inside the final minute and forcing UNC to operate under real pressure.

Wake Forest was led by Nate Calmese and Juke Harris, who combined for 56 points, repeatedly breaking down UNC’s perimeter defense during the comeback. Carolina’s offense stagnated during that stretch, settling for contested jumpers while Wake found cleaner looks and rhythm.

After the game, Hubert Davis acknowledged the concern, pointing directly to execution and focus. Davis said he liked how his team played for long stretches, but emphasized that UNC “has to do a better job finishing games,” particularly defensively. “You can’t relax,” Davis noted. “When you do, good teams make you pay.”

UNC did respond when it mattered most, hitting 7 of its final 8 free throws to seal the win and avoid the collapse entirely. Still, the closing minutes served as a reminder that margins shrink quickly in ACC play.

The Tar Heels walk away with the win — but also with clear lessons that will follow them forward. They now head out west for matchups with Stanford and Cal.