To Banghart’s point, there’s some silver linings to the loss: UNC out-rebounded USC, 45-39, and the Tar Heels also dominated the first quarter, taking an early lead while holding the Gamecocks to only four made field goals.

Banghart pointed to Gakdeng specifically as a key offensive leader. The head coach said the Boston College transfer rose to the high expectations the team’s set for her on Thursday. Gakdeng connected with the basket for eight points and grabbed 10 rebounds — UNC also outscored USC by 12 points in Gakdeng’s 23 minutes on the floor.

“Maria’s a big key piece for us,” senior forward Alyssa Ustby said. “She’s someone that we can rely on defensively and offensively. Seeing her be successful tonight and so far this season, we’re just really glad that she’s on our team.”

When Gakdeng picked up her second foul in the first half, Banghart said the foul trouble started to slow the offense down, as the center had to play more carefully on that end. Last week, it was Ustby’s foul trouble that stunted the Tar Heels in their first two losses of the season.

Banghart said the team was forced to use a shortened rotation at forward again against South Carolina.

“Those bigs, it’s not that they have to handle the ball, but it’s so physical, so it’s really tiring to play,” the head coach said. “[South Carolina] was able to shuttle bigs out and in, and we really weren’t. That hurt us a lot in that game.” 

For North Carolina to break its losing streak, UNC will have to keep its forwards out of foul trouble, as both Ustby and Gakdeng’s scoring is invaluable to the team’s offensive rhythm. The Tar Heels will have to make shots, and, most importantly for Banghart, use this loss as a turning point to bring the team closer together.

“I told them, ‘Win or lose, this doesn’t define you,” Banghart said. “‘It shows you what you’re made of, and you guys were made of the right stuff.’”

@carolinewills03

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