UNC Basketball: Brady Manek impresses to begin professional career

The former UNC basketball star signed with the Perth Wildcats after appearing in the NBA Summer League with the Charlotte Hornets.

One season with Brady Manek in Carolina blue was seemingly not enough for the program and fans alike, but the former UNC basketball standout is settling nicely into his new home across the world.

Although it’s just the preseason in the National Basketball League, Manek is already turning heads in Australia.

On Monday, Manek poured in the best game of his young professional career, recording 13 points, nine rebounds, and three assists in the Perth Wildcats’ 87-71 victory.

In his debut on September 11, the Harrah, Oklahoma native impressed, tallying 15 points and 5 rebounds in two starts.

Through three games in the NBL, Manek has continued his impactful play from his collegiate days, averaging 11 points and 5.3 rebounds.

In his lone season with the Tar Heels, Manek, who averaged 15.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, was a key piece in North Carolina’s run to the National Championship game and Final Four victory over Duke. As an Oklahoma transfer, he earned the Riley Wallace Player of the Year Award, an honor given to the nation’s top transfer player.

Manek’s impact on the UNC basketball program was major, as he instantly became a vital piece of the team’s starting unit. As quick as he became an impact on the court, he turned into a fan favorite even quicker. It’s safe to say that Tar Heels fans will be keeping an eye on him as he plays at the professional level.

The 4-0 Wildcats will return to preseason action on Wednesday with the season-opener on October 2 serving as the beginning of what looks to be a productive professional career for Manek.

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