Dayton vs North Carolina Picks and Prediction – 11/26/2024

The Dayton Flyers, sitting at an undefeated 5-0, clash with the 3-1 North Carolina Tar Heels in a highly anticipated matchup in Lahaina, Hawaii. Dayton's latest outing was a commanding 74-53 win against New Mexico State, while North Carolina is coming off a solid 87-69 victory over Hawaii. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Dayton has been a model of consistency to start the season, averaging 77.0 points per game while holding opponents to just 60.0. Enoch Cheeks has been the catalyst, leading the team in scoring with 15.0 points per game on an efficient 52.3% shooting and contributing 8.2 rebounds and 3.2 steals. Malachi Smith orchestrates the offense with 5.6 assists per contest. Offensively, Dayton's 48.7% shooting highlights accuracy, while the defensive efforts keep opponents under 40% shooting. Dayton matches North Carolina on the glass with 39.0 rebounds per game, an important factor against a taller Tar Heel squad.

Defensively, the Flyers have excelled, boasting 7.4 steals and 4.4 blocks per game. Cheeks' defensive ability complements the rim protection provided by Zed Key, who averages 1.8 blocks. The ability to disrupt offenses has kept the win streak alive, but the Tar Heels' high-powered offense presents a formidable challenge.

North Carolina's 93.3 points per game is an example of its offensive firepower, led by RJ Davis, who averages 17.8 points per game despite shooting just 34.4% from the field. Jae'Lyn Withers provides crucial support with 6.8 rebounds per game, while freshman Elliot Cadeau distributes the ball efficiently with 6.8 assists. Shooting 47.7% from the floor, the Tar Heels thrive in transition and capitalize on second-chance opportunities.

Defensively, the Tar Heels allow 73.0 points per game and struggle with perimeter defense, a potential weak spot Dayton may exploit. Drake Powell's 1.5 blocks per game anchors the interior, but the team's defensive lapses on the perimeter have been a recurring issue. Their defensive rebounding will be tested against a Flyers squad adept at creating second-chance points.

Dayton's well-rounded efficiency on both ends of the floor gives them the edge to stay competitive. North Carolina's defensive inconsistencies could allow Dayton to exploit matchups, keeping the game close. However, North Carolina's offensive depth may prove too much to overcome in the final minutes. Final Score Prediction: North Carolina wins but does not cover 85-80.