UNC's Lawson does not start vs. Duke

Feb 7, 2008 - 2:30 AM CHAPEL HILL, North Carolina (Ticker) -- Ty Lawson was not in the starting lineup as third-ranked North Carolina hosted intra-state rival No. 2 Duke in an Atlantic Coast Conference showdown on Wednesday.

The sophomore point guard failed to start his second game of the season due to a left ankle injury suffered in the Tar Heels' overtime win at Florida State on Sunday.

Lawson's status had been the main topic heading into the matchup after being seen on crutches early Tuesday.

On the season, Lawson has averaged 13.6 points and 5.7 assists in 21 games. He also has shot 54 percent from the field, including 36 percent (20-of-55) on 3-pointers.

Quentin Thomas started in place of Lawson. The senior guard has averaged 2.1 points and 2.2 assists in 20 games this season.

Considered one of the top rivalries in college basketball, North Carolina has won the last three meetings with Duke and four of the last five.