All Tar Heels

Former UNC Basketball Star Sees Team-High Minutes in Win Over Lakers

UNC basketball product Harrison Barnes played almost 40 minutes in a primetime overtime battle.

Matt Giles

Former UNC basketball forward Harrison Barnes (Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports)
In this story:

Harrison Barnes, who signed a contract extension with the Sacramento Kings in the offseason, didn't stuff his stat sheet on Sunday night. But the former UNC basketball forward saw more playing time than any teammates in their 132-127 overtime win at home over LeBron James and the 1-2 Los Angeles Lakers.

RELATED: List of All Former Tar Heels Currently in the NBA

Across his 39 minutes on the floor against the Lakers, the 31-year-old Barnes tallied eight points, two rebounds, two assists, one block, zero turnovers, and only one foul. He shot 3-for-9 from the field, 0-for-4 beyond the arc, and 2-for-2 at the foul line.

Barnes' premier stat line this season came in the Kings' season-opening road win over the Utah Jazz last week. In that matchup, UNC basketball's 2010-11 ACC Rookie of the Year and two-time All-ACC selection scored 33 points, the 2012 lottery pick's highest total in two years.

Through three games for the 2-1 Kings, Harrison Barnes, arguably the best bet to be the most productive active NBA Tar Heel this go-round after playing 82 games last regular season, is averaging 17.0 points and 3.3 rebounds.

He's shooting a notably high 46.2 percent from deep despite the 0-for-4 clip on Sunday night.

The Kings next face the 2-1 Golden State Warriors, the franchise that drafted Barnes, on Wednesday night.

Expert Names UNC His Top 'Final Four Dark Horse'

Stay tuned to All Tar Heels on SI.com for more UNC basketball news.

Published
Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

Home/Basketball