A surprising shift in the 2026 draft landscape
Matt Able, a 6‑foot‑5 guard who spent the last two seasons at NC State, announced that he is pulling his name from the 2026 NBA Draft and will instead suit up for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The decision comes as the Tar Heels enter a new era under head coach Michael Malone, who was hired to replace the departing staff and is now assembling his first full roster.
During his time with the Wolfpack, Able averaged 8.8 points and 3.4 rebounds across 34 appearances, shooting 35.5% from beyond the arc on 138 attempts. Those numbers reflect a reliable perimeter threat who can stretch defenses and create spacing for the team's interior players.
UNC officials said Able is one of four transfers slated to join the program for Malone's inaugural season, a group that also includes Terrence Brown, Neoklis Avdalas and Cade Bennerman. The influx of experienced talent is seen as a key step in accelerating the team's rebuild and injecting depth into a roster that struggled with consistency last year.
Michael Malone, who previously coordinated player development at a Power Five program, emphasized that Able's shooting efficiency and basketball IQ fit the offensive philosophy he wants to implement. "We’re looking for players who can stretch the floor and make smart decisions with the ball," Malone said in a recent press conference.
The move also underscores a broader trend in college basketball where top prospects are opting to test the waters of professional drafts while simultaneously securing a guaranteed college destination. Able's choice of Chapel Hill highlights the appeal of joining a historic program that can offer both national exposure and a clear pathway to the NBA.