Carolina's defense was a mixed bag. The Heels did show more length and athleticism on the perimeter — thanks in part to Barnes and fellow talented freshman Reggie Bullock — but didn't offer much pressure at the point of attack. The young players also will make mistakes until they more fully grasp the system.
UNC actually appeared to be pulling away early in the second half, but the Bisons launched a comeback and cut the lead to three points. The Heels then regained composure and received timely buckets from both Leslie McDonald and Tyler Zeller to win comfortably, if not in a way that inspired confidence.
But perspective is in order. College basketball is littered at this stage of the season with talented clubs struggling against inferior opponents. My take on UNC's first game is likely to be more positive than that of others, but later this month the Heels will face major tests and be expected to compete and win their fair share.
UNC's next game will take place in Puerto Rico next Thursday against Hofstra in the Puerto Rico Tip-Off, an eight-team tournament that ultimately could pit the Heels against teams such as West Virginia, Minnesota and Vanderbilt.
To see the UNC/Lipscomb box score, click here.