JUST IN: UNC Basketball program showing interest in a transfer big man from the SEC

May 12, 2024 Michael Mills College Basketball 0

While it’s been noted that the UNC basketball team has not landed some of the premier big men in the transfer portal, Coach Hubert Davis and his staff remain active in their pursuit.

Despite the setbacks, the Tar Heels are actively considering their options, with Ven-Allen Lubin, a former Vanderbilt player, emerging as a player of interest for the program.

David Sisk from Tar Heel Illustrated was the first to confirm the communication between Lubin and the Tar Heels, a development that fans should monitor closely in the coming weeks.

Standing at 6-foot-8, Lubin played as a center in Vanderbilt’s undersized lineup. Following his transfer from Notre Dame after his freshman year, the Orlando, Florida native started all 26 games this season, averaging 12.3 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. He re-entered the transfer portal on May 1, the final day for new additions.

Lubin’s adaptability is a key attraction for the UNC basketball program, as he can contribute at both center and forward positions. Known for his strong rebounding skills and athleticism, he could be a valuable addition for the Tar Heels in the upcoming 2024-2025 season.

UNC may have an edge in recruiting Lubin, given their connections. Lubin played alongside former Tar Heel Cormac Ryan at Notre Dame and was coached by ex-UNC basketball star Jerry Stackhouse at Vanderbilt last season. It’s possible that one or both of these former Tar Heels could assist in the recruitment process.

UNC is actively exploring the transfer portal to enhance their roster for the next season, particularly focusing on bolstering their front-court depth. Expect the Tar Heels to express interest in various potential options to fill the remaining roster spots.

The UNC Basketball program concludes the 2024 recruiting cycle with a top-10 class.

 

UNC basketball fans eagerly anticipate the debut of these players in Carolina Blue, with Jackson and Powell anticipated to have immediate impacts in the upcoming season. Brown may require some development time, but his potential is considerable coming from the Link Academy.

It’s worth noting that Elliot Cadeau was initially part of this recruiting class, which would have added another five-star talent. Had he not chosen to reclassify, the Tar Heels would have likely ranked among the top 5 teams in recruiting for this cycle.

A college basketball analyst offers an update on a potential recruit for the UNC basketball program.

Former Illinois forward Coleman Hawkins has been solely dedicated to preparing for the upcoming NBA Draft. The 6-foot-10 forward feels the time is right to begin his professional career, but made the intriguing decision to enter the transfer portal as a backup plan in case the NBA Draft doesn’t unfold as hoped. However, it appears that returning to college for another season may still be a possibility.

College basketball analyst Matt Norlander of CBS Sports made a radio appearance where he discussed Hawkins’ future. Norlander shared an interesting perspective on Hawkins’ options, including the potential involvement of the UNC basketball program.

Norlander identifies Arkansas, North Carolina, Louisville, and Kansas State, among others, as potential contenders for Hawkins if he decides to return to college. He suggests that a significant NIL deal would accompany Hawkins to his chosen program and indicates that there is a high likelihood of him returning for a final season in college.

Should Hawkins opt to come back, the UNC basketball program is expected to actively pursue him in the recruitment process. His addition would be highly beneficial for this year’s Tar Heels team, particularly in the “stretch four” role. Hawkins had an impressive senior season, averaging 12.9 points per game with solid shooting percentages.

Known for his high energy and versatile impact on the court, Hawkins aligns well with what Hubert Davis and UNC have been seeking in the transfer portal. While his recruitment process may be prolonged due to his involvement in the NBA Draft, the potential delay could pose challenges for UNC in exploring other transfer options. Nonetheless, Hawkins could be a valuable asset for the Tar Heels, potentially completing the puzzle for the team assembled by Hubert Davis and his staff in Chapel Hill.

UNC Women’s Basketball recruit Blanca Thomas has been chosen to take part in the Team USA trials, where she will compete against other top prospects for a spot on the USA U18 National Team.

The 2024 USA Basketball Women’s U18 National Team trials will commence on May 15 at the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. At the end of the trials, a 12-player team will be chosen to represent the USA in the 2024 FIBA U18 Women’s AmeriCup.

Blanca Thomas is one of 12 members of the Class of 2024 who have received invitations to attend this year’s trials. The remaining 14 participants are from the Class of 2025.

The complete list of trial participants is as follows:

Class of 2024: Joyce Edwards, Kayleigh Heckel, Zamareya Jones, Jordan Lee, Madisen McDaniel, Alivia McGill, Me’Arah ONeal, Arianna Roberson, Kennedy Smith, Zania Socka-Nguemen, Sarah Strong and Blanca Thomas.

Class of 2025: Sienna Betts, Divine Bourrage, Nyla Brooks, Kaelyn Carroll, Jasmine Davidson, Madison Francis, Layla Hays, Adelaide Jernigan, Zakiyah Johnson, Grace Knox, Leah Macy, Brynn McGaughy, Mia Pauldo and Aubrey Shaw.

The UNC women’s basketball program has a history of players competing for Team USA, with recent stars Deja Kelly and Alyssa Ustby participating in international play. Thomas now has the opportunity to earn a spot on the Team USA roster, and the experience alone will be invaluable for the incoming freshman forward.

Blanca Thomas is a highly regarded prospect expected to make an immediate impact for the Tar Heels. As she prepares for her first season with the UNC women’s basketball program, Thomas will compete against some of the best talent in the country, with the goal of securing a place on Team USA’s roster.

UNC Basketball recruit receives a 2024 Class Superlative from 247Sports.

 

 

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