Carolina Wins Tight One on Ford's Free Throws

Feb. 11, 2003

February 18, 1976

OXFORD, Ohio-Phil Ford hit a pair of free throws with seven seconds to play, lifting North Carolina to a narrow 77-75 win over Miami University at Millett Hall.

Playing a "homecoming" game for Tar Heel senior Dave Hanners, the Tar Heels were never able to shake the Redskins. In fact, the two teams were never separated by more than eight points.

The game featured great shooting by both teams. Carolina hit 54.7 percent of its shots from the floor and 82.6 percent of its free throws. All that was needed as Miami had percentages of 55.2 and 78.6.

The Tar Heels had an 18-10 lead midway in the first half. But, the Redskins outscored the visitors 16-3 over the next four minutes to gain a five-point advantage. That lead eventually grew to seven points before Carolina halted the Miami surge. Walter Davis hit a jumper with two seconds left, cutting the Redskins' edge to 37-33 at halftime.

There were five lead changes and nine ties in a tight second half. Miami's 67-62 lead with 6:32 left was the largest of the final period for either team. One minute later the game was tied after Mitch Kupchak hit two free throws and Davis followed with a long jumper.

The Redskins then led or the game was tied until 1:20 remained. At that point Kupchak hit one of two free throws, pushing his team ahead, 75-74. ut, 13 seconds later Archie Aldridge tied it again by making the front end of a one-and-one.

That set things up for the final seven moments when Ford was fouled on a drive from the four corners offense. Miami could only get off a desperation shot after he made both free throws.

Kupchak led the Tar Heel attack with 24 points and also pulled down 12 rebounds. Davis added 20 and Tommy LaGarde finished with 10. Ford had 13 and also handed out 10 assists.

Aldridge had 19 for Miami and Chuck Goodyear scored 17.

Scoreboard Slider

University of North Carolina Athletics

Related Videos