Withers' lane violation costs UNC in ACC Tournament

North Carolina's Jae'Lyn Withers committed a lane violation with 4.1 seconds left, negating a tying free throw in their 74-71 loss to top-ranked Duke in the ACC Tournament. This unusual mistake ended a near comeback from a 24-point deficit. Before the violation, UNC had rallied from a significant deficit, closing the gap to just one point. Ven-Allen Lubin was fouled and missed the first of two free throws, setting up the critical moment that led to Withers' error. Despite the loss, UNC players expressed support for Withers, emphasizing that the team’s success relied on his contributions. Coach Hubert Davis also defended Withers, highlighting his importance to the team's performance.