This feels like a gut punch for several different reasons.
The news UNC and Michael Malone were hoping to avoid has come in, with star big man Henri Veesaar declaring for the NBA Draft. Not only that, it has been reported that he's planning to stay in the draft, essentially shutting the door on a return to Chapel Hill.
This changes everything for next season, as Michael Malone and UNC will now have to target a new starting center. UNC landed the pledge of Maxim Logue, but he's not expected to start. So, who can the Heels pursue? There are three uncommitted playmakers Malone can still go after before it's too late.
3. Arizona State transfer Massamba Diop
This would of course be under the 'dream target' category, as Massamba Diop is ranked a 5-star transfer and the No. 2 center in the portal. Never say never? Diop indeed is yet to sign with a new school and he hasn't committed elsewhere either.
Gonzaga and St. John's have been two schools making a serious push to land the 7-1, 230-pounder, with Mark Few and the Zags hosting him for a recent official visit. With Veesaar not returning, Malone now has his NIL money to work with. Could it be enough to sell Diop on a future in the ACC? Let's make him say no, at least.
2. Cincinnati transfer Moustapha Thiam
Another 'dream' target would be Moustapha Thiam, but again, he's also still available and yet to make a final decision. This one might be a bit more tricky, as both St. John's and Michigan are the presumed favorites to land his pledge.
The Wolverines appeared to be in the driver's seat after his trip to Ann Arbor, but nothing has been finalized. Malone needs to get on the phone as soon as possible to see if the four-star transfer and No. 3 center in the portal is open to a visit. Last season for the Bearcats, the 7-2, 250-pounder averaged 12.8 points and 7.1 rebounds per contest.
1. Georgetown transfer Julius Halaifonua
Last but not least here, we've got Georgetown's Julius Halaifonua. The New Zealand native and 7-0, 260-pounder may not be the flashiest guy on this list, but he put together some solid numbers for the Hoyas last campaign - he averaged 9.5 points and 4.4 rebounds a night.
Ranked four stars and the No. 10 center in the portal, Halaifonua was a late addition to the portal and he's quickly been linked to Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, BYU and several others. Go ahead and add North Carolina to the mix, as the Tar Heels are on the hunt for center help. Malone could end up looking overseas for a new starting center too, but for now, we've got our eyes on Halaifonua, Diop and Thiam.
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