Feb 10, 2026; Coral Gables, Florida, USA; Miami Hurricanes guard Tre Donaldson (3) protects the basketball from North Carolina Tar Heels forward Jonathan Powell (11) during the first half at Watsco Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Grading North Carolina’s Bench Against Miami

Originally posted on North Carolina Tar Heels on SI
By Logan Lazarczyk | Last updated Feb 13, 2026 10:30 AM ET

It was a disappointing result for the North Carolina Tar Heels, who saw their five- game winning streak snapped on Tuesday night, with a 75-66 loss against the Miami Hurricanes. Although the result itself was not what the coaching staff and players were striving for, the production and efficiency from the bench was an encouraging development and should provide a confidence boost for specific players.

With all of that being said, here is an assessment for several players on the Tar Heels' bench, who made a significant impact despite the loss.

Kyan Evans

Stat line: 8 points and 4 assists

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Evans' performance on Tuesday night was what the coaching staff envisioned when they first signed the Colorado State transfer this past offseason.

The junior guard's struggles this season have cost him his starting role, which was inherited by Derek Dixon.

For the first time in weeks, Evans looked decisive and aggressive, playing within the tempo of the game, and most of the time, dictating the pace of play by relentlessly pushing the ball in transition. Evans shot 3-of-4 from the field, including 2-of-3 from beyond the arc.

Grade: A-

Luka Bogavac

Stat line: 6 points and 1 assist

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Bogavac’s production exclusively came in the first half, with the overseas transfer connecting on two three-point attempts.

In the second half, Bogavac was completely taken out of game, as Miami's high-pressure defense and fast-paced offense overwhelmed the 6-foot-5, 216-pound shooting guard.

The first-year collegiate player shot 2-of-5 from the field, including 2-of-3 from beyond the arc.

Grade: C+

Jonathan Powell

Stat line: 5 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2 steals

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The sophomore forward production usually occurs in quick spurts, and that was the case on Tuesday. However, he always arrives at the perfect time when the team needs a boost of energy.

Powell's ability to create his own basket and contribute as a rebounder was on full display. Expect Powell to earn more minutes heading into the conference tournament next month.

Grade: B

Zayden High

Stat line: 2 points and 5 rebounds

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The sophomore center played only seven minutes, but he was incredibly effective in his limited minutes. High has been capable of relieving Caleb Wilson and Henri Veesaar when the frontcourt tandem needs a quick break.

The Tar Heels center could see more minutes moving forward with Wilson potentially out for weeks. Look for High to play extensive minutes in a favorable matchup against the Pittsburgh Panthers on Saturday.

This article first appeared on North Carolina Tar Heels on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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