The University of North Carolina men's basketball team will face Indiana in their second preseason game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Sunday, October 18, at 5 p.m. This matchup comes after the Tar Heels' 88-70 victory over USC on October 9. Their preseason schedule also includes a game against Charlotte on October 27 before they begin their regular season with a home game against Western Carolina on November 2.
Read More
Indiana enters the game following a 96-68 win against Butler on October 11. The last time UNC faced Indiana was on November 30, 2022, where Indiana won 77-65 in the ACC-Big Ten Challenge. Over the last 25 years, the teams have played primarily in Bloomington, with the exception of a 2016 NCAA semifinal game that UNC won.
This game is significant as it marks Carolina's first appearance in Indianapolis since the 2000 national semifinal.
Under new head coach Michael Malone, who was appointed on April 7, 2026, the Tar Heels have a roster that includes five returning players and 11 newcomers. Among the returning players are senior forward Jarin Stevenson, who led last season’s squad with an average of 8.1 points per game.
UNC's incoming players include notable freshmen such as 6-7 forward Maximo Adams and 7-1 center Sayon Keita, alongside six collegiate transfers contributing to the depth of the team.
Carolina's coaching staff combines extensive college and professional experience, featuring several veteran coaches, including Sean May and Pat Sullivan, who have been part of the program for 55 years combined.
In the recent preseason poll, UNC was predicted to finish fifth in the ACC, with freshmen Maximo Adams receiving recognition as a candidate for Preseason ACC Rookie of the Year.
In their previous matchup against USC, Stevenson scored a game-high 25 points, and UNC demonstrated strong team play and defense, overcoming an early deficit. The team outscored USC 51-31 in the second half, showcasing their competitive spirit as they prepare for a challenging season ahead.