When/where: 8 p.m. today, BankUnited Center, Coral Gables, Fla.
TV/Radio: ESPN/WRDU-106.1
Player to watch: James Michael McAdoo, 6-foot-9, Fr., F. The UNC freshman describes his improved confidence as "night and day" compared to where it had been, and it's essential for the Tar Heels that he continues to improve and produce as a reserve. Given P.J. Hairston's uncertain status for tonight, McAdoo likely is to be the first player off the bench for UNC, which without Hairston essentially would be down to six reliable scoring options - McAdoo included. McAdoo has 15 points over the past two games - the most he has scored in consecutive ACC games.
Observations: This is the first game of a difficult closing stretch for UNC, which will plays four of its final six games on the road. The Hurricanes aren't known for their intimidating home crowds, but Miami coach Jim Larranaga was hoping for a strong turnout and an energetic crowd tonight. As he did the first time these teams met last month, Miami forward Kenny Kadji poses a matchup problem for the Tar Heels because the 6-foot-11 forward likes to shoot from outside. He has attempted at least three 3-pointers during each of Miami's past five games. Meanwhile, Harrison Barnes' injured left ankle wasn't 100 percent after the Virginia game Saturday, UNC coach Roy Williams said, but it continues to improve.
Projected starting lineups
North Carolina (21-4, 8-2)
F Harrison Barnes 17.5 ppg, 5.0 rpg
F John Henson 14.0 ppg, 10.3 rpg
F Tyler Zeller 16.0 ppg, 9.6 rpg
G Reggie Bullock 8.3 ppg, 4.5 rpg
G Kendall Marshall 6.8 ppg, 9.6 apg
Miami (15-8, 6-4)
F Kenny Kadji 12.6 ppg, 5.7 rpg
C Reggie Johnson 11.4 ppg, 6.9 rpg
G Malcolm Grant 12.1 ppg, 2.4 rpg
G Durand Scott 12.6 ppg, 3.4 apg
G Shane Larkin 7.5 ppg, 2.6 apg
