nERD: 16.48
Historical Comp: 2013 Miami (FL) Hurricanes 29-7, 2 seed, lost in Sweet 16
North Carolina compares to a Miami team that was not great in any one area but truly efficient offensively and defensively. This was Miami's first NCAA Tournament appearance under Jim Larranaga, and the squad featured current NBA journeyman Shane Larkin.
This year's Tar Heels return three key contributors from last year's title team, most importantly Joel Berry and Luke Maye, who combine to score 43 percent of the team's total points. The comparison also goes to another level when taking into consideration the veteran leadership of both teams, which has helped the Heels claim resume-building victories through an 11-2 non-conference slate. The early-conference schedule has not been kind to UNC, but they will likely right the ship and contend for another ACC title.