CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (Interstat) — Two of college basketball’s most storied programs will meet Sunday when the North Carolina Tar Heels host the Georgetown Hoyas at the Dean Smith Center. North Carolina (7-1) enters riding high after a pivotal 67-64 road win at then-Kentucky on Tuesday. The Tar Heels’ lone blemish is a 74-58 loss to Michigan State on Nov. 27. Georgetown (6-2) is coming off a 90-81 win over UMBC on Wednesday but has dropped two of its last three, including an overtime loss at Dayton. The matchup features a compelling clash of standout players. North Carolina will rely on forward Henri Veesaar, who is averaging 16.1 points per game. The 7-foot-1 junior was crucial in the win at Kentucky, scoring 17 points in 36 minutes, and posted a 24-point effort against Saint Bonaventure just days before. Georgetown’s offense flows through dynamic guard Malik Mack. The sophomore is averaging 17.4 points and 5.4 assists over his last five contests. He scored 24 points in the overtime loss at Dayton and followed with 16 points and seven assists against Miami (FL). In the win over UMBC, Mack had 15 points and seven assists. The Hoyas have shown resilience, with all six of their wins coming by nine or more points. Alongside Mack, forwards Julius Halaifonua and KJ Lewis provide scoring punch, each posting 16 and 17 points, respectively, in the last outing. For North Carolina, balance is key. Alongside Veesaar, forward Caleb Wilson adds a versatile threat, contributing 15 points and six assists in the victory at Kentucky. This nonconference showdown marks the first meeting between the schools since the 2022 NCAA Tournament. The Tar Heels hold a 9-7 all-time series edge. Following this game, Georgetown will host Saint Peter’s on Dec. 13, while North Carolina will welcome South Carolina Upstate the same day.