Tar Heels' Trimble Scores Career-High in Win Over Louisville

Senior guard Seth Trimble's dominant performance leads North Carolina to victory.

Feb. 24, 2026 at 12:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a key ACC matchup, North Carolina senior guard Seth Trimble scored a career-high 30 points to lead the 18th-ranked Tar Heels to a 77-74 win over 24th-ranked Louisville. Trimble's scoring outburst, which included a highlight-reel one-handed dunk, came after he was challenged by his coaches and teammates to be more aggressive following a sluggish first half against Syracuse a few days earlier.

Why it matters

Trimble's big game helped North Carolina bounce back from their recent struggles and pick up an important conference win over a ranked opponent. The Tar Heels are looking to solidify their NCAA Tournament resume, and Trimble's leadership and two-way play were crucial in this victory.

The details

Trimble scored 30 points on 11-of-16 shooting, including 7 made free throws. He also played strong defense, limiting Louisville's leading scorer Mikel Brown Jr. to 6-of-14 shooting from 3-point range. Trimble's highlight play was a one-handed tomahawk dunk in transition that energized the home crowd and gave UNC its largest lead of the game.

  • Trimble had 0 points and only 1 shot attempt in the first half against Syracuse on Saturday.
  • At halftime against Louisville, Trimble had a game-high 16 points.
  • Trimble scored 13 second-half points to help UNC defeat Syracuse on Saturday.

The players

Seth Trimble

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

Mikel Brown Jr.

The leading scorer for the Louisville Cardinals, who was limited to 6-of-14 shooting from 3-point range by Trimble's defense.

Hubert Davis

The head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels, who challenged Trimble to be more aggressive and take on a bigger offensive role.

Derek Dixon

A North Carolina player who praised Trimble's highlight dunk as a big energy play for the team.

Henri Veesaar

A North Carolina player who challenged Trimble at halftime to step up his offensive production.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I didn't know what was coming, but it was just a big energy play for us, and it was great to see.”

— Derek Dixon, North Carolina player

“It just doesn't work without you, Seth. He can impact winning in so many different ways. And I just challenged him to do it. And to do it consistently.”

— Hubert Davis, North Carolina head coach

“He just made so many plays. Not just scoring, but defense, deflections, steals, box-outs, rebounds. Obviously had a career high, but I'm just really happy for Seth; he played extremely well.”

— Hubert Davis, North Carolina head coach

What’s next

The Tar Heels will look to build on this momentum as they continue their ACC schedule, with an upcoming matchup against a ranked Miami team.

The takeaway

Trimble's dominant performance, both offensively and defensively, showcased his ability to lead North Carolina and be the driving force behind their success. His willingness to accept the challenge from his coaches and teammates highlights his leadership and commitment to the team.