Realistic Expectations for Each UNC Player in Projected Starting Five

With 11 new players entering the fold, the North Carolina Tar Heels will look dramatically different compared to last season.

That newness is not exclusive to the roster, as the coaching staff also features several newcomers, including Michael Malone and Chuck Martin. To the Tar Heels’ credit, they have assembled a compelling allotment of talent. The starting lineup is mostly known, with the center position being an exception. Nevertheless, here are realistic expectations for each projected starting player.

Advertisement

Neoklis Avdalas

Feb 21, 2026; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies guard Neoklis Avdalas (17) points to the fans after dunking the ball against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons during the second half at Cassell Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bishop-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Virginia Tech transfer’s ceiling is immensely high this season in Chapel Hill, as the 6-foot-9, 215-pound Greek guard is so close to reaching his potential.

Efficiency was an issue for Avdalas last season, but I expect his perimeter shooting to improve drastically. Even if Avdalas struggles to improve significantly in those areas, his creativity will always be there. The sophomore guard should lead the Tar Heels in assists and could develop into a potent scorer in the process.

Terrence Brown

Feb 28, 2026; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Utah Utes guard Terrence Brown (2) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Desert Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Scoring has never been an issue for the Utah transfer, especially last season when he averaged 19.9 points per game. Brown’s usage in 2025 was extremely high, which led to his high scoring averages and low outside shooting percentage.

Advertisement

While Brown’s scoring output may slide slightly, he will benefit from playing in Malone’s offense. The 6-foot-3, 175-pound guard will operate off the ball more often, which will give him easier looks at the basket, especially…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/realistic-expectations-unc-player-projected-100004535.html

Author :

Publish date : 2026-09-03 10:00:00

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.