UNC outlasts Valpo 88-77

Never-say-die Valparaiso nearly shook the Smith Center off its foundation yesterday, but flustered North Carolina held on against a last charge for an 88-77 victory. UNC led 67-43 with 11:55 left, but couldn't stop guards Brandon Wood and Brandon McPherson from hitting 3-pointers or driving to basket for close shots. Wood's hot hand let Valparaiso slice the lead to 77-67 with 3:45 left, and to 84-75 with 1:51 remaining.