North Carolina secured a dramatic victory over Duke after a late three-point shot from Seth Trimble capped a tense finish in one of college basketball’s most closely followed rivalries.

The game unfolded with the intensity and unpredictability that has long defined meetings between the two programs. Both teams traded momentum throughout, with neither side able to fully separate as the contest moved into its closing moments. Defensive pressure, contested possessions, and a charged atmosphere set the stage for a decisive play.

Trimble’s shot came in the final stretch, breaking the deadlock and shifting the balance in North Carolina’s favor. The basket immediately altered the tone inside the arena, underscoring how a single moment can define games between longtime rivals whose matchups often hinge on execution under pressure.

For North Carolina, the win represented more than a result on the schedule. Victories over Duke carry added significance, often shaping seasons emotionally and competitively. The outcome also reinforced the value of composure late in games, particularly against highly ranked opponents.

Duke, meanwhile, showed resilience throughout but was unable to respond after the late score. The loss served as a reminder of how narrow the margins can be in rivalry games, where preparation and talent are often matched and outcomes are decided by timing and poise.

The matchup once again illustrated why the North Carolina–Duke rivalry remains central to the college basketball landscape. Even amid changing rosters and evolving seasons, games between the programs continue to draw attention for their stakes and intensity.

As the season continues, both teams are expected to remain prominent in conference and national discussions. For now, North Carolina leaves with a win defined by a single, timely shot — one that added another memorable chapter to a rivalry built on moments like these.