GREENSBORO, N.C.— North Carolina triumphed over Southern California, 88-70, in their preseason opener on Friday night at First Horizon Coliseum. The Tar Heels showcased strong defensive play in the second half, holding USC to just 26.5 percent shooting during that period.

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After halftime, North Carolina pressured USC into missing 15 of its first 20 shots while forcing 10 turnovers. The team initiated a 12-0 run and held the Trojans without a score for nearly six minutes. This performance allowed Carolina to lead for the final 10 minutes of the game, outscoring USC 51-31 in the second half.

Michael Malone made his debut as head coach of the Tar Heels, having taken the position in April. He expressed gratitude for the support from fans and acknowledged the adjustments needed after a year away from coaching. Malone credited his staff for their assistance in navigating the game's nuances.

Jarin Stevenson led the Tar Heels with a double-double, scoring 25 points along with 10 rebounds. Isaiah Denis contributed 14 points, including two three-pointers in the first half. Neo Avdalas added 15 points, nine rebounds, and five assists before fouling out, while freshman Maximo Adams scored 11 points and grabbed six boards in his debut.

"Jarin Stevenson had a tremendous performance, and being able to play through him late was great to see," Malone said.

The turning point came when Alex Samodurov's three-pointer enabled Carolina to take the lead at 56-53. The Tar Heels' defensive efforts were apparent as USC managed only six points in the paint in the second half.

Rodney Rice led USC with 22 points, while Alijah Arenas added 17. North Carolina also excelled on the boards, out-rebounding USC 47-33.

In the first half, after initially falling behind 10-3, Carolina rallied, led by Denis and Adams, to tie the game at 20. The lead changed multiple times, with USC ending the half ahead 39-37, capitalizing on a moving screen called on Samodurov during UNC's last possession. Despite shooting only 35.5 percent as a team in the half, the Tar Heels managed to stay competitive by forcing turnovers and winning the rebounding battle.

The game marked the first of two preseason contests for Carolina, who will face Indiana on October 18 and then host Charlotte on October 27. After a nine-day break to practice, the Tar Heels return to the court against Indiana.