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College Basketball ACC Power Rankings: Week 17

By Charlie Maikis

Feb 27, 2017; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Virginia Cavaliers guard London Perrantes (32) dribbles the ball as North Carolina Tar Heels guard Joel Berry II (2) chases in the second half at John Paul Jones Arena. The Cavaliers won 53-43. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 27, 2017; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Virginia Cavaliers guard London Perrantes (32) dribbles the ball as North Carolina Tar Heels guard Joel Berry II (2) chases in the second half at John Paul Jones Arena. The Cavaliers won 53-43. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 25, 2017; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Roy Williams reacts on the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the second half at the Petersen Events Center. The Tar Heels won 85-67. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 25, 2017; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Roy Williams reacts on the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the second half at the Petersen Events Center. The Tar Heels won 85-67. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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North Carolina Tar Heels

Last week: 25-6, 13-4 ACC
Last rank: 1

The Tar Heels have clinched at least a share of the ACC regular season title. Because of that, they keep the number one spot despite a loss. The win over Louisville was a big one as it gave them a 1.5 game cushion at the top of the conference. They could have clinched an outright conference win if not for the loss to Virginia. That performance was not exactly inspiring. It was the least points they have scored in nearly 40 years. North Carolina has just one game left on their schedule. Getting revenge on rival Duke will be at the front of their minds, but clinching the top seed in the ACC Tournament would be an added benefit.

Next: 2016-17 College Basketball All-Injured Team

They are in the driver’s seat for a number 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. A win over Duke or a win in the ACC Tournament would certainly cement that for good. Getting both might make them the presumptive favorite heading into the big dance. The Tar Heels are a complete team, with threats inside and on the perimeter. They can defend and score well, in the Kenpom top 20 in each offensive and defensive efficiency. Roy Williams’ team will have the chance to show their chops in a big home duel with Duke this weekend.