North Carolina Tar Heels Defeat Pittsburgh Panthers 79-65

Short-handed Tar Heels secure another 20-win season despite missing top scorers

Feb. 15, 2026 at 6:31am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The No. 11 North Carolina Tar Heels defeated the Pittsburgh Panthers 79-65 on Saturday, securing another 20-win season despite playing without their top two scorers and rebounders. Jarin Stevenson and Seth Trimble scored 19 points each to lead the Tar Heels, while Luka Bogavac and Zayden High also had strong performances. Cameron Corhen scored 23 points for the Panthers, who have now lost five in a row.

Why it matters

The win extends North Carolina's impressive streak of 20-win seasons, a testament to the program's consistent excellence. However, the Tar Heels' ability to win without their top players raises questions about the team's depth and ability to withstand injuries as they look to make a deep postseason run.

The details

The Tar Heels jumped out to a 16-5 lead and never looked back, leading by as many as 21 points. North Carolina made 10 of its first 12 shots from the field and took a 46-32 lead at halftime. The Panthers made a late push, cutting the deficit to 14 points, but the Tar Heels responded with an 8-0 run to put the game away. Zayden High made his first career start and posted a team-high seven rebounds for the Tar Heels.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Jarin Stevenson

A transfer from Alabama, Stevenson scored a season-high 19 points to lead the Tar Heels.

Seth Trimble

The Tar Heels' guard also scored 19 points, including 13 in the first half.

Luka Bogavac

The Tar Heels' forward scored 15 points in the win.

Zayden High

The Tar Heels' center made his first career start and posted a team-high seven rebounds.

Cameron Corhen

The Panthers' forward led all scorers with 23 points in the loss.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

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

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

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

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Tar Heels will look to continue their strong play when they travel to NC State on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

The takeaway

Despite missing their top two scorers and rebounders, the Tar Heels demonstrated their depth and resilience in securing another 20-win season. This win highlights the program's consistent excellence and ability to overcome adversity as they look ahead to the postseason.