With over 1,300 players currently listed in the transfer portal, and with the Tar Heels having 5 scholarships available heading into next season, it’s not a surprise that they are using that avenue to build their roster for 2021-22. Hubert Davis has already landed the transfer of Justin McKoy from ACC foe Virginia, and has made an offer to Christian Bishop from Creighton. He didn’t stop there, as Oklahoma transfer Brady Manek has heard from the new head coach of the Tar Heels. Manek has spent the last 4 seasons in Norman, starting at least 20 games during his time as a Sooner. His transfer comes after longtime head coach Lon Kruger decided to retire after this past season. The 6-9 forward averaged at least double digits scoring all four of his seasons with Oklahoma, and his career scoring average sits at 12.0 points per game. He scored the majority of his points from behind the arc, as he averaged 5.1 three pointers per game, and shot 37% from long range. He averaged a career best 6.2 rebounds during his junior season, and for his career Manek grabbed 5.6 boards per game.
It’s easy to see why Carolina is interested in Manek, he provides experience which this roster needs, and some size at 6-9. Right now, the Tar Heels are looking at losing all 6 of their front court players from last season, via either transfer or heading to the NBA. Manek would at least provide some stability for the Tar Heels in the post. Also, his ability to play on the perimeter is a plus, as Hubert Davis plans on opening up the floor for his guards. His three point shooting ability would take the pressure off of Kerwin Walton, who was the only consistent outside threat last season for UNC.
Landing Manek would be a huge addition, but it won’t solve the lack of talent or depth in the front court for Carolina. After postponing their zoom call with Charlotte, NC product Jonas Aidoo, it appears they are done recruiting the former Marquette commit. With the recruiting season winding down, and COVID still impacting the way coaches recruit, expect more offers to come from the transfer portal this off-season. One thing to note, all 3 of the transfers that have been targeted by Hubert Davis, all play in a Power 6 conference, unlike when UNC brought in Christian Keeling and Justin Pierce from mid-major programs. Davis knows that to return to the top of the ACC in Year 1, he’ll have to do so with talented players from talent rich conferences.
Make sure to stay tuned to the Heel Tough Blog for all the latest recruiting news surrounding Carolina Basketball.
Four Corners Podcast:
Commentaires