UNC Basketball: 5 reasons why the Tar Heels will be better than Duke in 2018-19

3. Best returning player between the two teams

Part of UNC’s experience means they usually have some of the best-returning players in the country, and this year, they might have the best returning player in the country – let alone in the rivalry – in Maye.

The former walk-on had a breakout junior season with an increased role, averaging 16.9 points and 10.1 rebounds per game. He will be a first-team preseason All-American in pretty much every publication and will provide Carolina with a reliable go-to player right of the bat.

Everything Maye lacks in athleticism and ideal size (he’s only listed at 6-8) he makes up for in skill. He has one of the most polished post-up games in the country, stretches opposing defenses with his shooting ability (43.1 percent three-point shooter last season), and has demonstrated some terrific vision for a big man.

Still, Maye said at UNC’s summer press conference that he’s been working on improving some areas of his game that he’s not happy with.

"“I have made some adjustments. People might think I shot the ball well from the field.  I still missed a lot of shots. I shot the ball pretty poorly at the end of the year, so I changed some things. “I had a really strong year. I didn’t finish as well at the basket as I should have. I had some games where I struggled offensively, so that’s where I need to be more consistent. I struggled at the free throw line and feel I can get to the line even more.”"

UNC needed Maye to step up last season following the departures of the big men listed previously and he delivered in a huge way. Now, the Heels need him to step up once again and become an even bigger star – and he’s poised to deliver.