The UNC basketball program was on an upward trajectory in the second half. However, this familiar narrative has played out in nearly every game this season. The Tar Heels often start flat in the first half, only to come out with a vengeance in the second. But time and again, they find a way to lose despite their comeback efforts. It's a cycle that continues to repeat.

Hubert Davis: Blame and Growth

The players on the court haven't always lived up to their potential. Hubert Davis, too, has faced criticism for his questionable decision-making. Remember when he took over? We begged him to recognize his bench. While the "Iron Five" made it to the NCAA title game, it wasn't a sustainable strategy. Over the years, Davis has improved in subbing but still struggles to understand the game at times. In his fourth season, his pattern of substitutions during losses is evident.

Second-Half Lineup Changes

During the second half of a recent loss to No. 7-ranked Florida, the starting unit had an explosive run. But then, Davis made some questionable decisions. He inserted Elliot Cadeau for Seth Trimble and removed Cade Tyson and Ven-Allen Lubin in favor of Jalen Washington and Jae’Lyn Withers. Cadeau's decisions led to turnovers, and Washington and Withers were ineffective. Instead of going back to the successful original lineup, Davis put out a four-guard lineup with Lubin at center, which struggled to rebound against the bigger Gators.

Improvement Areas

Getting out to better starts is crucial. Why does this team wait until the second half to perform? Davis and the coaching staff need to wake the unit up before the tip. It's time to unleash Ian Jackson. He should be in the starting lineup, with Cadeau moving to the bench. Playing Washington and Withers together should be avoided. Limiting their minutes and giving others like Cade Tyson and Ty Claude a chance could pay off. The Tar Heels also need to find an offensive identity. Timeouts seem wasted as the same plays keep coming. Davis needs to incorporate new schemes to get his star players open.

The Pressure Mounts

While we're not calling for anyone's job yet, if the Tar Heels keep struggling, the pressure will increase. The hot seat will get warmer as time goes on. It's a critical moment for the team and its coaching staff.