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RJ Davis reveals his thoughts following UNC comeback victory over UCLA in CBS Sports Classic

Wade-Peeryby:Wade Peery12/21/24
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(photo credit - Jordan Godfree | USA TODAY Sports)

UNC basketball found themselves down by 16 points on Saturday night to the UCLA Bruins in Madison Square Garden. And much like they’ve done so many times this year, the ‘Heels managed to battle back and take the lead. Only this time, they were able to finish it off and bring home the 76-74 victory. UNC guard RJ Davis pumped in 17 points in the win.

Following the comeback victory, RJ Davis spoke with the CBS sideline reporter about the win.

“We knew it was going to be ugly, coming into the game. UCLA gave us a really hard game. They’re a really good defensive team, but one thing about us. We don’t quit. We’re a very resilient team. We had players make big-time plays. Shout to Ian (Jackson). He was able to come in, be confident. One thing about us, our response. That’s what Coach Davis had been preaching the whole week. How you respond when you get knocked down, man,” Davis explained.

“Basically, we came prepared in the second half and were able to win,” Davis noted.

Did RJ Davis have a little extra motivation with plenty of his family members in the crowd?

“All my friends from back home. My family. Mom and dad. My sister. Little brother. So, having them back here, having support, and just gave me a little bit of motivation,” Davis finished.

It’s been a familiar spot for the ‘Heels, as they’ve found themselves having to battle back in a number of their games. Star freshman Ian Jackson stepped up bigtime, pumping in 24 points and grabbing four rebounds. He was one of the most coveted prospects in the nation coming out of high school, checking in as the No. 8 overall player in the country, according to the On3 Industry Ranking for the 2024 cycle.

It’s a big resume win for UNC, who currently sits at 7-5 overall on the 2024 campaign. Their record is a bit deceiving, as they’ve been handed some close losses to tough competition (Kansas, Michigan State, Florida).