Duke vs. North Carolina: Future NBA Stars to Watch in Marquee ACC Clash

The rosters of Duke and North Carolina are always riddled with future NBA talent. Mike Krzyzewski and Roy Williams do a terrific job of recruiting and preparing their players for the next level, so it's no surprise the two ACC programs are among the nation's elite.

Here are three players to watch in this season's first clash between the rival schools.

Harrison Barnes – UNC

Barnes arrived at North Carolina with a lot of hype. He didn't always have the look of a dominant scoring force during his freshman season, however, which is why he returned for a second year even though most people assumed he would fall into the one-and-done category.

It certainly seems like he made the right choice. He's played with a lot more aggression and confidence this season, averaging 17 points and five rebounds despite playing less minutes. That uptick in efficiency proves he'll be ready to take the next step if he so chooses at season's end.

He's already proven he can knock down shots from virtually anywhere on the floor, so now it's just about adding more strength and he'll be the total package.

Austin Rivers – Duke

After a minor dry spell in early January, Rivers has looked more like the top prospect everybody expected him to be in recent games. The Duke guard is at his best when he's attacking the basket at all costs and not settling for too many jumpers.

He's the son of NBA coach Doc Rivers, so he's been around the game for virtually his entire life and that's why he handles the spotlight so well. His maturity should allow him to succeed in the NBA despite the constant pressure which will surely be on his shoulders.

His play in tonight's game will probably decide the outcome.

Watch him early on. If he's being aggressive, Duke will be in good shape. If he's taking a lot of jump shots, the Tar Heels will roll.

John Henson – UNC

Henson tends to get overshadowed by Barnes and Tyler Zeller, but he's just as talented as his higher-profile teammates. He's a defensive monster, averaging more than three blocks, thanks to his off-the-charts athleticism.

While his offensive game is still a work in progress, he still contributes on that end of the floor to the tune of 14 points per game. Once he develops some more moves in the post, he'll be a nightmare matchup for opposing forwards.

If North Carolina is going to hold serve at home, the Tar Heels will need to control the paint for all 40 minutes. Henson is going to play a prominent role in making sure the job gets done to prove UNC are the beasts of the ACC.