Roy Williams Says He Should’ve Called Timeout

The most important play in #20 Duke’s 74-73 win at #5 North Carolina was the last one.  Tar Heels sophomore guard Joel Berry II drove the lane and has his shot blocked by Derryck Thornton to preserve the Blue Devils’ upset victory over their bitter rivals.

North Carolina coach Roy Williams, says he should’ve gone against his coaching philosophy and called one of his remaining timeouts.  He told C.L. Brown of ESPN.com:

“Coach Smith taught me — and I believe this, I’m not blaming it on Coach Smith, it’s my call,” Williams said. “I think you should always attack before the defense gets set. I’ve always believed that, always taught that, the way I’ve always played. I told the kids I should’ve called the timeout.”

The Tar Heels failed to get senior forward Brice Johnson, who shot 13-17, more than two looks from the field over the course of the final 13 minutes of the game, despite a 29 point, 19 rebound performance.

“I told them I was sorry, that I should’ve gotten us a better shot at the end,” an emotional Williams said.

Article by Nick Vigliotti