Keeping It Heel
Fansided

An early prediction of UNC Basketball’s 2018-19 starting lineup

By Grant Hughes

CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 18: Head coach Roy Williams of the North Carolina Tar Heels and his team react to their 86-65 loss to the Texas A
CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 18: Head coach Roy Williams of the North Carolina Tar Heels and his team react to their 86-65 loss to the Texas A /
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CHAPEL HILL, NC – DECEMBER 03: Luke Maye
CHAPEL HILL, NC – DECEMBER 03: Luke Maye /

Center: Luke Maye

What can you say about Luke Maye? His NCAA heroics in 2017 helped propel UNC to a National Title and him into the spotlight.

He now lives in UNC lore, not only as a player with great moments, but also as a great player in general. This past season, Maye shocked the NCAA landscape by averaging a double-double (16.9 points, 10.1 rebounds).

For his efforts, Maye was named first-team All-ACC, third-team All-American, and the ACC’s Most Improved Player. He now has one final year to cement himself as a Tar Heel legend.

The former three-star high school recruit also led the Tar Heels in three-point percentage at a remarkable 43%. His rise to prominence has fans excited for what he has in store for his final season in Chapel Hill.

UNC will need his rebounding prowess if they are to again overcome the shortcomings of a small lineup. Like last year, Maye will begin this season as UNC’s most valuable and irreplaceable player.

If he can have another season like this past one, the sky is the limit for this year’s UNC team.

Alternate Option: Sterling Manley 

Manley is a true center and the future after Maye graduates this season. After substantial improvement over the course of the season, he is more than just a dark horse to be the fifth starter.

At nearly seven feet tall, Manley gives UNC the size and defensive presence Maye doesn’t have to offer.

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