North Carolina wins Michael Malone’s coaching debut by beating Western Carolina 80-72

Chapel Hill, N.C. (AP) — Matt Able netted 18 points as North Carolina secured a 80-72 victory in Michael Malone's inaugural coaching game, defeating Western Carolina. Just after the final six minutes, the Tar Heels executed a decisive push to secure the win. Matt Able was instrumental in the win with 18 points. Terrence Brown contributed 14 points and Neo Avdalas added 13.

The Tar Heels (1-0) showcased a 13-2 run to build a double-digit lead against the resilient Catamounts. UNC's shooting efficiency was 41.8%, with only 30% from beyond the arc. Western Carolina, led by Jaxon Prunty with 18 points and Jaeden Roberts adding 17 points, including four three-pointers, finished the game with a 41-32 rebounding edge.

The 55-year-old Malone, who spent 12 seasons as an NBA head coach, including a championship run with the Nuggets, became the first UNC coach to lead the program without playing for the Tar Heels or serving as an assistant since Frank McGuire's tenure in 1952. The Tar Heels will host Wofford on Friday night, marking the first of six consecutive home games to open the season.