CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (Interstat) — A pivotal Atlantic Coast Conference men’s basketball clash is set for Monday night when North Carolina hosts Louisville at the Dean Smith Center. Both teams enter with momentum, having won seven of their last eight games. The Tar Heels (21-6, 11-5 ACC) are coming off a 77-64 road win at Syracuse, while the Cardinals (20-7, 11-5) routed Georgia Tech 87-70 at home Saturday. The outcome will have significant implications for the conference standings, with the teams currently tied. Louisville is powered by the explosive scoring of guard Mikel Brown, who is averaging 24.1 points over his last seven games. Brown erupted for 45 points in a win over NC State on Feb. 9 and followed with 29-point performances against Baylor and SMU. His ability to create offense will be critical against North Carolina’s defense. The Tar Heels counter with versatile forward Henri Veesaar, who provides a consistent interior presence. Veesaar is averaging 16 points over his last five games and is a defensive force, recording four blocks against Georgia Tech on Jan. 31 and three against Syracuse last Saturday. His matchup inside will be a key battleground. North Carolina holds a slim edge in the all-time series, but Louisville won the last meeting. The Tar Heels have been strong at home this season, while the Cardinals have proven capable on the road with wins at Baylor and Wake Forest this month. Following this game, North Carolina will host Virginia Tech on Saturday. Louisville travels to face Clemson next Saturday.