What's Happening?
The North Carolina Tar Heels men's basketball team is gearing up for a preseason exhibition game against BYU, scheduled for October 24, 2025, at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. This matchup marks the third-ever
meeting between the two teams, with the last encounter occurring in 2007. The Tar Heels are returning key player Seth Trimble, who averaged 11.6 points per game last season, and have added newcomers Caleb Wilson and Luka Bogavac, along with several transfers. BYU, ranked No. 8 in the AP preseason poll, will bring their scoring leader Richie Saunders and freshman AJ Dybantsa, a notable addition to their roster. Tickets for the game are available on StubHub, with prices starting at $100.
Why It's Important?
This exhibition game is significant as it provides an early look at two top-25 ranked teams before the regular season begins. For North Carolina, the game is an opportunity to test their new lineup and gauge the performance of their returning and new players against a strong opponent. BYU's inclusion of AJ Dybantsa, a top freshman, adds intrigue to the matchup, potentially impacting the dynamics of the game. The outcome could influence preseason expectations and set the tone for both teams' upcoming seasons, affecting their strategies and player development.
What's Next?
Following the exhibition game, both teams will continue their preparations for the regular season. North Carolina will face Central Arkansas on November 3, while BYU will play Villanova on the same day. The performance in this exhibition could influence coaching decisions and player rotations as both teams aim to refine their strategies and improve their standings in the competitive college basketball landscape.
