The UNC basketball staff is scrambling to find another big or two to solidify the program's 2024-2025 roster. It's no secret.
Former Vanderbilt forward Ben-Allen Rubin's visit to Chapel Hill this week is unlikely to yield a commitment. And Illinois transfer Coleman Hawkins, who is ranked highest on the Tar Heels' active portal radar, is an early prospect after impressing scouts at the NBA Draft Combine currently being held in Chicago. He gave himself a reason to lean toward remaining a draftee.
As a result, Ugonna Onyenso ranks 180th overall and 29th among centers in the 247Sports Transfer Rankings. The 7-foot, 245-pound giant from Kentucky, who boasts a 7-foot-5 wingspan, entered the portal and declared early for the NBA Draft in April after a promising sophomore campaign as a 19-year-old. did. After suffering a foot injury in the summer, he averaged 3.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks in just 18.8 minutes per game.
On Thursday, 247Sports' college insider Adam Finkelstein echoed what he's hearing regarding Onyenso's draft decision and college recruiting, saying the talented Nigerian player has not received an invitation to play in five games. , suggesting the Tar Heels and Louisville currently appear to be the top choices. 5-on-5 Combined Scrimmage:
“Now his earning potential looks like it's going to be much, much higher in the college basketball world…North Carolina still needs a big player. They're trying to land a replacement for Armando Bacot, but it's still not going to happen.” Not been able to… Another program being considered as one of his biggest options is Louisville, which has seen Pat Kelce make some notable additions… He needs a rim protector too…Keep an eye on North Carolina and Louisville for Ugona…”
– 247Sports' Adam Finkelstein
UNC Basketball has six returning players heading into next season, adding three freshmen and one transfer so far in former Belmont University sharpshooter Cade Tyson.
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