Kansas and North Carolina collide in a battle for the Blue Bloods

On November 9, 2024By Pranco

LAWRENCE, Kan. (KCTV) – Two of the most historic programs in college basketball took place Friday night in Lawrence, Kansas. The No. 1 Kansas Jayhawks played host No. 9 North Carolina in a rematch of KU’s most recent national championship victory.

Kansas fans didn’t think North Carolina had a chance in Allen Fieldhouse.

“It’s the loudest place in America for an indoor game,” said Van Peters, a KU student. “130.4 decibels.”

KU fans were eager to show the nation who the “better” blue blood was on Friday night. Listen to KU students and they will tell you that North Carolina can’t compete with Kansas.

“KU is the better blue blood because it has the history of basketball in the program,” Peters said. “Honestly, it has the most wins of any college in America right now.”

“Our audience is unlike any other,” Jackson Scribante said. “Our team is good. We have been consistently good for decades.”

North Carolina fans weren’t shy at Allen Fieldhouse. Some Tar Heels felt right at home in Lawrence.

“We’re going into enemy territory armed and ready,” said Martin Holland, who traveled from North Carolina for the game. “Go chop!”

Although fans of a rival elite program, UNC fans told KCTV5 they couldn’t wait to take in the magic at the “Phog.”

“That was the other part, probably one of the most important parts, to experience Allen Fieldhouse with all the history and everything that was going on,” Holland said. “I’m looking forward to going in, taking pictures, walking around and enjoying it.”

KU fans had their doubts about whether North Carolina would be able to compete two halves in one of the best atmospheres in all of college sports.

“It’s the best environment for college basketball,” Peters said. “There are shirts that say: ‘I’m sorry, everyone loses here.’ You’ll have to fight your way to win in this place.

No. 1 Kansas defeated No. 9 North Carolina 92-89. The Jayhawks will take on Michigan State on Tuesday in Atlanta. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 p.m