James Michael McAdoo Shows Glimpses of 2012-13 Potential

We knew the talent and potential were there, we were just waiting for him to show it. But it was going to be quite difficult as the freshman forward was stuck behind three future first-round NBA picks, all three of whom could go in the lottery of the 2012 NBA Draft as well.

But when the injury to junior starter John Henson occurred in the ACC Tournament, McAdoo got the call and didn't disappoint; with Henson on the sideline, McAdoo put in an effort that wowed scouts. In a career-high 29 minutes against Maryland, the 6'9" power forward finishing 5-of-8 from the field for 14 points and 8 rebounds.

With Henson still partially nursing his wrist injury, McAdoo averaged 19.25 minutes in the 2012 NCAA Tournament (compared to about 15 per game before), logging 17 points in the second-round game against Vermont with 6 rebounds and impressive 4 steals and another strong performance of 15 points on 6-of-8 shooting against Kansas in the Elite 8 loss.

In 2012-13, the North Carolina Tar Heels become McAdoo's team. Four starters must be replaced and based on his upside and potential, a "break out" season from the sophomore-to-be is expected. He was gaining steam as a potential-lottery pick in 2012 based on his small collegiate sample size and now will get to show off his athleticism, fundamentally-sound post game, emerging face-up game and the motor and quickness that will make him a 2013 lottery pick after a solid season as a starter for UNC.

By President - Corey Ruff - 4-9-12