North Carolina’s basketball roster for the 2025-26 season is starting to take shape following a series of moves in April through the transfer portal. While a few players have entered the portal and found new teams, UNC has also brought in four new additions.
On Monday, the situation shifted when a key player expected to be part of next season’s lineup made a significant announcement.
Center Ven-Allen Lubin has entered the transfer portal after his first year at North Carolina. However, there’s a positive aspect to this news: Lubin is keeping the possibility of returning open and intends to stay with the Tar Heels next season.
In a message on social media about his decision, Lubin stated:
“Before anyone jumps to conclusions, I want to clarify that I am entering the transfer portal with the full intention of returning to UNC. My decision is related to the complexities of the potential approval of the ongoing NCAA settlement.”
Before anybody jumps to the wrong conclusion, I am letting everyone know that I am entering the transfer portal with full intent on returning to UNC. My action relates to the complexities surrounding the possible approval of the pending NCAA settlement.
— Ven-Allen Lubin®️ (@LubinVen) April 21, 2025
This marks Lubin’s third time entering the transfer portal, having previously played at Notre Dame and Vanderbilt. He became UNC’s leading center towards the end of his first season, participating in all 37 games and starting in 20, where he averaged 8.7 points and 5.5 rebounds.
Lubin concluded the season by scoring in double figures during the final 11 games for UNC.
The transfer portal for players wishing to enter closes on Tuesday (April 22). However, players already in the portal can sign with a team at any time.
Earlier this month, UNC recruited center Henri Veesaar from Arizona, but Lubin is anticipated to receive more playing time this coming season.
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