UNC can’t match Kentucky’s physicality or make enough plays at the end

ATLANTA — Cormac Ryan found his shot in Atlanta, but Armando Bacot could barely get off any shots against No. 14 Kentucky’s tall, physical lineup that dominated the boards. Even with Bacot neutralized for most of the game, No. 9 Carolina challenged No. 14 Kentucky until the end but couldn’t get enough stops or plays in the final minutes as the Wildcats held on for an 87–83 victory Saturday at the CBS Sports Classic in the State Farm Arena.

Healthier Heels pick up the pace, roll past Western Carolina

CHAPEL HILL — In probably the last sure win on No. 25 North Carolina’s schedule, the Tar Heels took full advantage on a feel-good night full of holiday cheers and torrid defense. Eager to rebound from a short-handed loss to No. 17 UConn, the Tar Heels — with two players back who didn’t play in that game — dominated Western Carolina at Carmichael Arena. UNC led by 64 points late before finishing off a 96–36 win behind senior wing Alyssa Ustby’s 23 points.

Debut episode: “Bleav in Heels Hoops” podcast, presented by Tar Heel Tribune and Tobacco Road Sports Radio

This is the first episode of the “Bleav in Heels Hoops” podcast, presented by Tar Heel Tribune and Tobacco Road Sports Radio, with c-hosts Desmond Johnson and R.L. Bynum talking about Carolina basketball. In the first episode, they discuss this list of the top 10 UNC-Kentucky games, look back at the loss to UConn and ahead at Saturday’s game in Atlanta against Kentucky in the CBS Sports Classic.

Walton starts, scores 17 in Texas Tech win with much bigger role; Styles has game-high 19 in Hoyas victory; Todd-Williams scores 10

There was little reason for hope that Kerwin Walton would have much of a role at Texas Tech through the first six games, but he suddenly has become a key player for the Red Raiders. It all changed in the 87–58 victory over Omaha on Dec. 6 when Walton scored a career-high 22 points, and starter Devan Cambridge suffered a season-ending knee injury.