The UNC men’s basketball team has nailed it once again, pursuing a top target in the transfer portal.
Last missing for North Carolina was Coleman Hawkins, the big man who — last season — led Illinois to its first Elite 8 appearance since 2005. Hawkins averaged 6.1 rebounds and had a career-high 12.1 points per game, so when he initially entered his name into the transfer portal, it’s no surprise that he had plenty of suitors.
The Tar Heels need an experienced starting center. They already have Jalen Washington and Zayden High on the roster, as well as freshman James Brown, but Washington is the only one with extensive experience — and he was a reserve last year.
I like the idea of Washington starting, but it’s disheartening to see UNC attack these top talents.
On Friday, June 14, Hawkins announced that he would be transferring to Kansas State. The Wildcats, like the Fighting Illini, reached the Elite 8 last year.
If there was any speculation about Hawkins chasing money in the transfer portal, his NIL deal at K-State confirms that speculation. Hawkins’ settlement is estimated to be worth more than $2 million.
North Carolina added a few starters in the transfer portal, picking up Cade Tyson from Belmont and Ven-Allen Lubin from Vanderbilt. Tyson is expected to replace Cormac Ryan at striker, while Lubin will likely replace Harrison Ingram at striker.
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