The college basketball world is buzzing with anticipation, but one question looms large: Is Ken Pomeroy underestimating the Tar Heels? With his preseason rankings out, the analytics guru has placed North Carolina at No. 33, a spot that's raising eyebrows and sparking debate. While Bart Torvik (No. 18) and Evan Miyakawa (No. 26) show more optimism, KenPom's ranking feels like a cold splash of reality for Tar Heels fans. But here's where it gets controversial: Could this lower ranking actually be a blessing in disguise? After all, the 2021-22 team started at No. 40 and ended up in the National Championship Game. History suggests that KenPom's skepticism might just fuel North Carolina's fire.
And this is the part most people miss: UNC's schedule is no walk in the park. They face seven opponents ranked above them, including two top-10 teams and three more in the top-20. Their non-conference slate is a gauntlet, with standout games against Kansas (No. 21), Michigan State (No. 25), and Kentucky (No. 4). The preseason exhibition against BYU (No. 18) in Salt Lake City on October 24 is already circled on every fan's calendar. These matchups will test the Tar Heels early and often, potentially setting the tone for their season.
In the Atlantic Coast Conference, North Carolina sits at No. 4, trailing Duke, Louisville, and Clemson. But the ACC is a powerhouse this year, with six teams in KenPom's top-50. This means UNC will have ample opportunities to prove their mettle against elite competition, including showdowns with Duke (No. 7), Louisville (No. 14), and Clemson (No. 32). Is this the toughest schedule the Tar Heels have faced in years, or is KenPom underrating their potential?
Let’s break it down further. The Tar Heels’ non-conference schedule includes a mix of challenging and manageable opponents. While games against Radford (No. 143) and NC Central (No. 328) offer breathing room, clashes with Ohio State (No. 27) and Kentucky (No. 4) will be early season litmus tests. The ACC slate is equally unforgiving, with road trips to NC State (No. 38), SMU (No. 43), and Virginia (No. 59) looming large. Can UNC navigate this minefield and climb the rankings, or will they fall short of expectations?
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: What if KenPom’s ranking is actually a strategic move? By setting the bar lower, could he be challenging the Tar Heels to prove him wrong? After all, nothing motivates a team like being underestimated. Or is this ranking a fair assessment of a team still finding its identity? Weigh in below—do you think KenPom got it right, or is he sleeping on North Carolina’s potential? The season is young, but the debate is already heating up.
