Lexington, Kentucky, December 3, 2025
In a thrilling ACC/SEC Challenge, No. 16 North Carolina defeated No. 18 Kentucky 67-64. Freshman Derek Dixon secured the win with a late-game layup. The match featured 14 lead changes and intense plays, showcasing standout performances from both teams. Kentucky struggled with three-point shooting, while UNC’s defense limited their scoring opportunities. This victory marks UNC’s first road win of the season, improving their record to 7-1, while Kentucky falls to 5-3.
Lexington, Kentucky – In a thrilling ACC/SEC Challenge matchup, the No. 16 North Carolina Tar Heels edged out the No. 18 Kentucky Wildcats with a 67-64 victory on Tuesday night at Rupp Arena. Freshman Derek Dixon became the game’s hero, sinking a decisive left-handed layup with 16 seconds remaining, securing the Tar Heels’ seventh win of the season.
The game showcased a back-and-forth battle, featuring 14 lead changes and nine ties. Henri Veesaar led North Carolina with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while teammate Caleb Wilson contributed a double-double with 15 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists. Luka Bogavac added 12 points to the effort. Dixon’s late-game heroics included a crucial three-pointer with 53 seconds left, followed by the game-winning layup.
For Kentucky, Otega Oweh led the scoring with 16 points. Despite struggling from beyond the arc, shooting just 1-of-13, and facing a 10-minute field-goal drought in the second half, the Wildcats remained competitive. Collin Chandler added 12 points, and Denzel Aberdeen chipped in 10.
The first half concluded with both teams tied at 31, setting the stage for a tense second half. North Carolina’s defense proved pivotal, limiting Kentucky to a single three-pointer on 13 attempts and forcing a turnover in the final seconds to seal the win.
This victory marks North Carolina’s first road win of the season, improving their record to 7-1. Kentucky, now 5-3, faces challenges as they look to regroup after this narrow defeat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the UNC vs. Kentucky game?
The final score was 67-64 in favor of the No. 16 North Carolina Tar Heels over the No. 18 Kentucky Wildcats.
Who was the standout player in the game?
Freshman Derek Dixon was the standout player, scoring the game-winning layup with 16 seconds remaining and contributing a crucial three-pointer earlier in the final minute.
How did the teams perform from beyond the arc?
North Carolina made six three-pointers, while Kentucky struggled, making only one out of 13 attempts.
What is the current record for both teams?
North Carolina improved to 7-1 with this win, while Kentucky’s record stands at 5-3.
Key Features of the Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | 67-64, North Carolina over Kentucky |
| Game Hero | Derek Dixon’s game-winning layup with 16 seconds left |
| Leading Scorer for UNC | Henri Veesaar with 17 points and 10 rebounds |
| Leading Scorer for Kentucky | Otega Oweh with 16 points |
| Three-Point Performance | UNC made 6-of-20; Kentucky made 1-of-13 |
| Turnover in Final Seconds | Wilson’s steal sealed the victory for UNC |
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Derek Dixon Leads North Carolina to Victory Over Kentucky
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