Navy @ North Carolina - Navy +26.5 - 2025-11-18 19:00:00 - College Basketball for Tomorrow, 11/19/25

Navy enters this matchup with more continuity than many high major teams, returning all five starters and nearly 87% of its scoring from last season. Under new head coach Jon Perry, the Midshipmen lean heavily on senior guard Austin Benigni, the Patriot League Preseason Player of the Year, and rely on their strengths on the offensive glass through Aidan Kehoe and Donovan Draper. That combination of experience, physicality, and tempo control gives Navy a clear identity — one that often helps it hang around against more athletic opponents. While the talent gap between the Patriot League and the ACC is sizable, Navy’s veteran core, slow pace, and disciplined shot selection make it a tricky matchup for teams still working through early season chemistry.

North Carolina, meanwhile, has already been forced to adjust after losing senior captain Seth Trimble indefinitely due to a broken forearm. Trimble was the Tar Heels’ only returning starter, a stabilizing defender, and their most reliable on ball presence — meaning UNC is now leaning on younger pieces to shoulder key minutes. While UNC still has more overall talent and will likely control the game, the loss of Trimble does impact both offensive rhythm and perimeter defense. Navy’s ability to limit possessions, create second chance points, and force UNC’s newer guards into extended decision making should help the Midshipmen stay within striking distance of the number.

Navy vs UNC Prediction: Navy +26.5 (-110) available at time of publishing. Playable to that number