Social media reacts as UNC's game-tying free throw against Duke negated by costly late whistle

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North Carolina was on the heels (no pun intended) of completing a 24-point comeback against top-ranked Duke in the ACC semifinal, but a costly mistake ruined their chances.

Ven-Allen Lubin was at the line with 4.1 seconds to go for a chance to tie the game, and he made his free throw.

However, it was negated by a lane violation.

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North Carolina Tar Heels guard Seth Trimble (7) reacts to a missed opportunity later during the second half against the Duke Blue Devils at Spectrum Center.  (Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images)

The refs blew the whistle on Jae'Lyn Withers as Duke, without Cooper Flagg, celebrated. The Blue Devils were able to knock down a pair of free throws, and Lubin missed his three-pointer to send the game to overtime, giving Duke a 74-71 win.

While the violation was clear, many fans were upset with the call.

"You do not call these in those situations man," said one user on X.

"Look how excited that referee was to enter the play and decide the game on an absolutely meaningless violation. Total disgrace," added another.

Wrote one more, "as usual the refs doing their thing."

But a rarity occurred, as many other fans came to the officials' defense.

North Carolina Tar Heels guard RJ Davis (4) and guard Seth Trimble (7) react to a missed opportunity later during the second half against the Duke Blue Devils at Spectrum Center.  (Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images)

"Man if it’s a violation in the first why isn’t it now? And that was clear as day," one post said.

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"I guess you could just say I