RALEIGH, N.C. — Following a disappointing loss to NC State, North Carolina head coach Hubert Davis provided an update on the condition of starting center Henri Veesaar. While there are signs of progress, uncertainty remains regarding his immediate availability.

Davis described Veesaar’s status as “day to day,” highlighting positive developments despite ongoing issues related to a lower extremity injury and a bout with the flu. “He is improving each day, and we will continue to evaluate his situation,” Davis stated. “Once he starts practicing, we’ll assess when he can play.”

A team spokesman confirmed that Veesaar was sidelined from practice as of Wednesday, which contrasts with earlier optimism from Davis. Just days prior, Davis noted significant strides in Veesaar’s recovery during his weekly radio show. “Today was a big step forward for him,” Davis said, referring to a notable improvement after the blue-chip recruit dealt with both an injury and illness.

Despite that optimistic assessment, Veesaar did not participate in practice nor was he available for the game against NC State, marking his second straight absence. Initially listed as questionable, Veesaar was officially ruled out just two hours before tipoff, adhering to Atlantic Coast Conference protocols.

Veesaar’s most recent absence followed a similar situation against Pitt, where he was dressed for the game but was ultimately held out due to health concerns. On that occasion, the team cited illness as a primary reason for his unavailability. A representative confirmed that the latest absence was strictly due to the ongoing injury.

In the previous matchup against Pitt, Veesaar participated in warmups but did not see game action. During that time, observers noted kinesiology tape on his left Achilles, signaling an area of concern. Veesaar’s lower extremity issue originated from an injury sustained during a loss to Miami on Feb. 10, where he briefly left the court but returned quickly.

The Tar Heels have felt Veesaar’s absence keenly on the court. With him sidelined, teammates Jarin Stevenson and Zayden High have stepped up, collectively contributing 60 points and 39 rebounds over the past two games. However, the gap left by Veesaar, who averages 16.4 points and 9.0 rebounds per game alongside a solid 44.8% shooting from three-point range, is palpable.

In Tuesday night’s contest, North Carolina experienced its lowest scoring output of the season, managing only 58 points while struggling in the paint, where they were outscored 40-28.

The next opportunity for an update on Veesaar’s status will come on Friday, when the team releases its availability report ahead of an upcoming clash with Syracuse on Saturday at 1 p.m.