Where: Palestra, Philadelphia, PA
When: Tuesday, December 4th, 7:00 PM
TV: ESPN2
Records: UNC 7-0; Penn 2-6
Welcome home Wayne Ellington.
Per UNC tradition, the Heels take a road trip to one of the player's hometown, in this case Wayne Ellington. Needless to say this is great time to go considering how well Ellington has played so far. It will be a nice trip home for him if he can make a good showing in front of his family and friends.
This game is pretty much a no brainer. The toughest part for UNC is the continuing travel odyssey and the fact they have played four tough games in a row. At some point you have to wonder if this will wear on them a bit, especially as it pertains to focus and intensity. While Penn is 2-7 they did play Virginia and ranked Villanova fairly close so taking care of business upfront would be in order here.
Aside from Ellington looking to fill things up for the home folks, Tyler Hansbrough is coming of two very frustrating games which included being beat up by defenders and generally not shooting the ball well. I would expect much improved play against the Quakers. Ty Lawson should play and be a little closer to 100% which only helps UNC to get their general rhythm back on offensive. This game is very much about establishing good patterns of play on both ends of the floor and putting together a complete effort.
UNC 104 Penn 67