UNC Men’s Basketball Exits NCAA Tournament After Loss to Ole Miss

The North Carolina Tar Heels' season ended on a disappointing note as they fell to the Ole Miss Rebels, 71-64, in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. The Tar Heels struggled offensively, shooting only 38.1% from the field and 20.8% from three-point range, leading to their worst tournament performance in recent memory. Despite a late-game surge that cut the deficit to a single possession, they couldn't capitalize, with Ole Miss maintaining control through key free throws and a strong rebounding performance. Junior guard Seth Trimble expressed the team's frustration, noting a lack of energy and passion during the game. Mississippi's victory marked their first NCAA Tournament win since 2015, and they will advance to face Iowa State for a chance at the Sweet 16. The game encapsulated the Tar Heels' tumultuous season, which ended with their worst tournament seed ever and their third first-round exit.