UNC Enters Stretch Run Without Star Freshman

Tar Heels continue to win despite Caleb Wilson's absence, relying on role players and improved defense.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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North Carolina's men's basketball team has continued its strong season, beating Louisville and Virginia Tech at home to improve to 4-1 without star freshman Caleb Wilson. The Coast to Coast podcast crew discusses the Tar Heels' unexpected success, highlighting the standout performances of players like Seth Trimble and Henry Veesaar, as well as the team's improved defensive discipline and offensive consistency. The focus now turns to the final two regular season games against Clemson and Duke, as UNC looks to maintain its momentum and secure a high seed in the conference and NCAA tournaments.

Why it matters

North Carolina's ability to win without its star freshman Caleb Wilson has been a pleasant surprise, showcasing the depth and versatility of the team. As the Tar Heels enter the final stretch of the regular season, their performance will be crucial in determining their postseason seeding and positioning.

The details

North Carolina has won four of its last five games, including victories over Louisville and Virginia Tech at home. In the win over Louisville, sophomore guard Seth Trimble scored a career-high 30 points, while freshman forward Henry Veesaar added 26 points in the win over Virginia Tech. The team's improved defensive discipline and offensive consistency have been key factors in their recent success, with role players like Jonathan Powell and Zayden High also making important contributions.

  • North Carolina beat Louisville on March 1, 2026.
  • North Carolina beat Virginia Tech on March 4, 2026.

The players

Caleb Wilson

A star freshman for the North Carolina Tar Heels who has been out due to injury.

Seth Trimble

A sophomore guard for the North Carolina Tar Heels who scored a career-high 30 points in the win over Louisville.

Henry Veesaar

A freshman forward for the North Carolina Tar Heels who scored 26 points in the win over Virginia Tech.

Jonathan Powell

A role player for the North Carolina Tar Heels who has made important contributions during the team's recent success.

Zayden High

A role player for the North Carolina Tar Heels who has made important contributions during the team's recent success.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.