Henri Veesaar Powers North Carolina to Pivotal Road Win Over Kentucky

North Carolina guard Henri Veesaar scored a game-high 17 points on Tuesday night. He led the Tar Heels to a tense 67-64 road victory over the No. 18 Kentucky Wildcats. The ACC/SEC Challenge game was held at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. It was a major early-season test for both teams.

This win marked North Carolina’s first true road victory of the 2025 season. According to ESPN game data, the contest featured nine ties and fourteen lead changes. Neither team ever led by more than six points, highlighting the intense back-and-forth nature of the matchup.

A Nail-Biting Finish Sealed by Defense

The game was tied 64-64 in the final minute. Tar Heel guard Derek Dixon made a crucial tiebreaking layup. He then hit a key three-pointer to put North Carolina ahead for good.

Kentucky had a chance to tie in the final seconds. Wildcat Collin Chandler drove for a layup but missed the attempt. North Carolina’s Caleb Wilson then stole the ensuing inbounds pass to secure the win. Wilson finished with a strong double-double of 15 points and 12 rebounds.

Veesaar’s Steady Hand Proves Decisive

While Dixon had the late heroics, Henri Veesaar’s consistency was the foundation. The Estonian guard provided steady scoring throughout the contest. His ability to penetrate and finish kept the Tar Heel offense flowing during Kentucky runs.

Veesaar’s performance showcased his growing importance to the team. He has evolved into a reliable scoring option in high-pressure environments. His 17 points came efficiently, helping North Carolina withstand a tough Wildcats defense.

Kentucky’s Scoring Drought Proves Costly

The Wildcats struggled with their shooting at critical times. They missed their first eight three-point attempts of the game. More damaging was a nearly ten-minute field goal drought in the second half.

During that long dry spell, North Carolina built a small but vital lead. Kentucky guard Otega Oweh led his team with 16 points. The loss was Kentucky’s first at home this season, dropping their record to 5-3.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Henri Veesaar?

Henri Veesaar is a guard for the North Carolina Tar Heels. He is originally from Estonia and has developed into a key scorer for the team in the 2025 season.

What was the final score of the game?

The North Carolina Tar Heels defeated the Kentucky Wildcats 67-64. The game was part of the annual ACC/SEC Challenge event.

How did Kentucky lose at home?

Kentucky suffered a nearly ten-minute scoring drought without a field goal in the second half. This, combined with key missed shots in the final seconds, led to their first home loss.

What does this mean for North Carolina?

The win improves North Carolina’s record to 7-1. It provides a major confidence boost as it was their first road victory against a ranked opponent this season.

Who else played well for North Carolina?

Caleb Wilson had 15 points and 12 rebounds. Derek Dixon hit the game-deciding shots in the final minute to finish with 14 points.

What’s next for both teams?

North Carolina will host Georgetown next. Kentucky faces a tough matchup against the No. 11 ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs.