It was a great night for the future UNC pair.
The McDonald’s All-American game was played last night, and two North Carolina signees showed off their strengths. Although the East team, which they both played on, got down by double-digits, the two helped lead a furious comeback. If that was a glimpse at the future of North Carolina, then the program is in good hands.
Tar Heels Play Well
With so many players on both teams, each participant is limited in their time on the court. However, these two played extended minutes down the stretch. The East team was losing by 17 points in the second quarter and went to the half down by seven. At that point, UNC commit Ian Jackson had just four points. That East squad would come back and win, with Jackson lighting the defense up. That and his future teammate, Drake Powell, getting multiple steals, assisting teammates, and grabbing rebounds helped lead the team to victory. To close the game, both future Tar Heels were in the game.
Showing Off Their Strengths
Both of the UNC signees showed off exactly what they are known for.
Jackson scored over and over, putting up 17 in the second half and 21 for the game. He is advertised as a scorer, and he did just that. Jackson was also bringing the ball up, playing point guard. He did it from all three levels as well. Jackson was the team’s second-highest scorer.
Powell is going to be an elite defender. Although he didn’t score, he had two steals and four rebounds. Powell was also tasked with guarding Rutgers signee Dylan Harper down the stretch, who had been nearly unstoppable to that point. Because he can do everything, he was +11 in his 17 minutes played.
That 5-star duo will be in Chapel Hill next season.
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