UNC storms back from a 21-point deficit to beat Dayton

The North Carolina Tar Heels just completed the second-largest comeback in program history, capping a big day at the Maui Invitational on Monday night/Tuesday morning.

After North Carolina fell behind by double digits in the first half, Dayton extended its lead to 21 with just over 17 minutes left. But the Tar Heels stormed back and scored 57 points in the second half, overwhelming the Flyers 92-90 and advancing to the semifinals of the Maui Invitational on Tuesday.

And the Tar Heels did it on the backs of RJ Davis and Seth Trimble.

The duo combined for 57 of North Carolina’s 92 points, with Davis leading the way with 30 points and Trimble contributing 27 points. The two goals came late in the game and helped UNC get back into the game and also made it to the free throw line. It was a special performance for the duo, and UNC backcourt Elliot Cadeau also had 10 points despite being in foul trouble for most of the game.

From the start, Dayton showed they wanted to play physical and hit North Carolina right in the mouth. UNC had no answer to Dayton’s hot shooting in the first half as they extended the lead.

The Flyers took a 51-33 lead at halftime, but the second half felt immediately different for UNC.

The Tar Heels showed fight and despite missing two straight layups, they were stopped. Then Davis and Trimble took over.

A small 8-2 run gave UNC some life and allowed them to stay within striking distance. After getting a big bucket, Dayton responded with one of their own. After a three-pointer from Amael L’Etang, the Flyers were ahead 84-80 with 2:50 left.

The Tar Heels got closer and took an 88-87 lead on a three-pointer from Drake Powell. Davis would seal the game with four free throws in the final 15 seconds and UNC would hold off the Flyers after Nate Santos’ foot was on the line with six seconds left.

North Carolina now takes on No. 4 Auburn on Tuesday night, while Dayton takes on No. 5 Iowa State.

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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: UNC storms back from a 21-point deficit to beat Dayton