UNC Basketball: A Slip in the Rankings

UNC Basketball has experienced a significant shift in its national rankings following a tough loss to SMU. The Tar Heels have dropped five spots in the USA TODAY Sports coaches poll, now sitting at No. 17, down from their previous position at No. 12. This loss also marked the end of a seven-game winning streak, leaving UNC with a 13-2 overall record and a 1-1 mark in the ACC.

Looking Ahead

UNC is set to face in-state rival Wake Forest on January 10. This game could serve as a turning point for the team, especially after a week of rest. The Tar Heels will need to regroup and focus on their upcoming matchups.

Broader Picture

In the broader context, other ACC teams like Duke, Louisville, Virginia, and SMU are also making their mark in the rankings. Duke, in particular, is holding strong at No. 3 nationally. Meanwhile, Michigan and Arizona remain undefeated, sitting comfortably at the top of the rankings.

Mixed Rankings

UNC's performance in various polls and analytics sites presents a mixed picture:

• NET rankings: Dropped to 22nd from a previous position.
• KenPom: Currently at 29th.
• EvanMiya and Bart Torvik: Both have UNC at 25th.

These rankings reflect the team's performance in different quadrants of games, with a notable loss in a Quadrant 1 game against SMU.

The Road Ahead

The Tar Heels have a lot to prove in the coming games. Their performance will not only impact their rankings but also their standing in the ACC. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how they bounce back from this setback.