Hansbrough doubtful for North Carolina opener

Nov 12, 2008 - 8:50 PM CHAPEL HILL, North Carolina (Ticker) -- It is looking more and more like Tyler Hansbrough will miss a game for the first time at North Carolina.

The reigning national player of the year, Hansbrough is "extremely doubtful" for top-ranked North Carolina's season opener against Pennsylvania on Saturday, the school announced Wednesday.

Hansbrough, who averaged 22.6 points and 10.2 rebounds last season, is sidelined by a stress reaction in his right shin that has kept him from practicing since the end of October.

"We've made the decision to hold Tyler Hansbrough out of action a little longer," Tar Heels coach Roy Williams said. "It's extremely doubtful that he would play against Pennsylvania, and I emphasize extremely doubtful. We will continue to evaluate him and have more information when it becomes available."

A senior, Hansbrough has played in all of UNC's 108 games over the previous three seasons.