- Last Season: 26-11, Lost in second round of NCAA Tournament
- Notable Losses: Joel Berry, Theo Pinson
- Notable Additions: Nassir Little, Coby White, Rechon Black
Losing both Joel Berry and Theo Pinson can’t be understated for the North Carolina Tar Heels. Not only were both players productive for Roy Williams’ team throughout their respective careers, but they were leaders on and off the floor as well. As such, new guys will have to step up, but the Tar Heels have the blend of veterans and incoming young talent to make that happen and perhaps be even better than they were a year ago.
In regards to the returning players, Luke Maye is going to continue to be a focal point of this team after averaging a double-double (16.9 points, 10.1 rebounds) last season as his role dramatically increased. Joining Maye will be Kenny Williams, who took a big leap forward as a two-way guard last year, and Cameron Johnson, who averaged 12.4 points per game last season while reportedly playing through a hip injury that he had surgery to repair this offseason.
As for the freshmen, the Tar Heels have a trio of top-50 players that should excite fans. Nassir Little isn’t getting the buzz that some are, but he has the potential to be one of the best freshmen in the country as a highly athletic and skilled forward. What’s more, point guard Coby White will take the point guard reins as a prolific scorer and playmaker. Rechon Black, meanwhile, adds depth on the wing where they need it.
There are questions about who will step up in the UNC frontcourt at center, but they have bodies there to try and fill that role. And with the talent around that spot, this team could be dangerous from start to finish.