This just goes to show how quickly things can change in recruiting for UNC and Michael Malone. Just recently, Inside Carolina had reported that the Tar Heels were focusing their late transfer portal search on former Buffalo guard Angelo Brizzi. However, Sherrell McMillan added that a decision wasn't expected soon from the veteran playmaker. So much for that.
Henri Veesaar's NBA rookie contract proves he actually made the right decision
News broke just recently that Brizzi evidently had a change of heart, with Inside Carolina reporting that he has actually shut down his recruitment and committed to Malone. This is a pleasant surprise for the Heels, as Malone has been on the hunt to fill out his last roster spot. Originally, the thought was that it'd be either Wei Lin or Brizzi, but the latter has been the one to grab a seat at the table.
BREAKING: North Carolina has made a summer addition to its backcourt.
— InsideCarolina (@InsideCarolina) July 1, 2026
Buffalo transfer guard Angelo Brizzi has committed to UNC
Story: https://t.co/jIyL3O5p6Z pic.twitter.com/q0BhQaMMpZ
Angelo Brizzi committs to North Carolina and he'll provide instant depth at guard
This feels like an underrated get for North Carolina and Malone for multiple different reasons. To start, Brizzi's experience alone is a major plus for this new-look roster. Originally, Brizzi suited up for Villanova as a true freshman in 2022-23. He was supposed to be out of eligibility following this past season with Buffalo, but he was given a hardship waiver.
During his freshman year, he only appeared in nine games, which opened the door for him to pursue an extra season in the college ranks. North Carolina was in immediate contact with Brizzi when he was given the green light to play in 2026-27, though Gonzaga and others were also working to get him to commit as well.
So, why should Tar Heels fans be excited about this late addition? It's simple. You can't teach the experience that Brizzi is providing Malone. No, he's not going to be looked at to be a 20-point scorer a night, but he can come off the bench and give Terrence Brown a breather when he needs one running the offense out on the hardwood.
Brizzi's ability to knock down shots from all over the hardwood can't be ignored either, as the 6-3, 195-pounder averaged 14.5 points for Buffalo last season, while shooting 48 percent from the floor. That's going to prove to be quite valuable for Carolina next campaign whenever the senior's number gets called.
All in all, this is a low-risk move for Malone, and Brizzi has seen his dreams of playing for UNC come true. This feels like a win-win for both sides, as Brizzi will look to take advantage of this opportunity and deliver for Malone and his staff whenever his number is called moving forward.
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