Hubert Davis provides update on Dawson Garcia, how his absence impacts UNC vs. Marquette

As North Carolina prepares for the NCAA Tournament, it’s doing so without Dawson Garcia, who stepped away for the rest of the season. Hubert Davis provided an update on Garcia prior to the tournament amid everything he’s going through.

Garcia stepped away due to a family illness last month. At the time of his decision, he averaged nine points and 5.5 rebounds per game, meaning it was a big loss for UNC. Davis acknowledged how Garcia’s impact, especially as the Tar Heels get ready to take on Marquette in the NCAA Tournament.

“Brady out there on the floor just works,” Davis said. “It’s worked the entire season. The chemistry between Brady and Armando, it just works. You know, their games complement each other. Their personalities and mentalities complement each other.

“Brady does more than just shoot. He’s an excellent passer. He’s an instinctive player. He just knows how to play. And with experience of playing in the Big 12 for four years, that’s invaluable to us. And so, not just when we have lost people, it’s been clear and definitive when Brady is on the floor, we’re just better.”

However, Davis also said he talks to Garcia often to see how he’s doing with everything.

“We text regularly and just to check up and see how he’s doing,” Davis said. “I know that from a family standpoint, he’s going through a lot. Our love and our support, and our commitment to Dawson has never wavered. And, you know, we’re very happy that he’s had an opportunity to be at home, to be with family during this tough time, and we’re thankful to be able to support him in that. And it would be great to have him here.”

UNC forward Dawson Garcia will not return to Tar Heels this season

In a statement after making the initial announcement, Garcia shared his appreciation for the UNC basketball community in a statement and explained what was going on.

“I cannot thank everyone enough for the unbelievable support that has automatically been given to me while I flew home to support my family,” Garcia stated, in part. “Not everyone will understand, but those who know our family are very aware of the circumstances and challenges we are facing. As much as I love this University and basketball, being in the middle of a health crisis is where our family is right now and it’s where I need to be.

“After the loss of several very special family members this past year, I came close to losing my dad in December and my grandma is currently in the ICU. With my dad recovering and my grandma fighting for her life, it’s not even a question to me where I need to be right now. My family is my world and I will always be there for them. The past few months have quickly changed my perspective on life and I have put this into God’s hands and trust His guidance.”