UNC Basketball: Andrew Platek season review

With the injuries and inconsistent play from the North Carolina Tar Heels this season, the opportunity was there for Andrew Platek to capitalize on his shooter reputation as a recruit.

However, even with an increase of nearly five times his average minutes from last season, there was no such progression with offensive output. Platek’s season-high for points was nine, which he scored on three occasions.

Below are Platek’s stats from this season:

Platek experienced a 10 percent drop in overall shooting percentage from last year. He averaged four shot attempts per game in 2019-20 versus just one average attempt from the previous season.

As with other players with an increased role this season, it was not the best year for offensive output. It is unfair to lay this entirely on the shoulders of Platek.

Perhaps there will be an opportunity for the junior guard to become a shooting specialist in his senior year. However, Platek found a role this season.

He proved he is efficient in handling the ball. Platek finished with 44 assists this season. This is an average of 1.4 per game played.

With just 19 turnovers on the season, Platek finished the year with the highest assist/turnover ratio on the team. His 2.32 assist/turnover ratio was the only one above 2.0 on the squad.

Throughout the season, his coaches and teammates spoke highly of his effort and hard work. This was reflected in Platek’s defensive efforts off the bench once conference play started. Head coach Roy Williams used him in high-pressure late-game situations, like against Duke, and he was matched up with talented opposing guards.

Anything can happen in the offseason, and with two freshmen likely to start at the 1 and 2, Platek will be a crucial role player. He will be relied upon to provide excellent defensive efforts and not turn the ball over.

Platek can undoubtedly provide those two efforts. Anything above that in his senior year will be a welcomed addition.