Matt Able settles the UNC-NC State debate with unmistakable message in viral clip

This is one way to spice up an in-state rivalry that we have no problem saying is pretty dang one-sided. When it comes to UNC and NC State, the Wolfpack will do everything possible to make it seem like they hold a candle to the Heels, but come on, let's be serious for a minute. And if you ask new UNC stud Matt Able, there's really no discussion here.

UNC fans' first look at Matt Able turning heads in Chapel Hill was worth the wait

While on a live social media video with incoming Carolina freshman Maximo Adams, Able discussed why he ended up leaving NC State after one season to take his game to Chapel Hill. Straight up, Able did not hold back in saying there's a higher level of ball in Carolina blue compared to what's going on in Raleigh. Hey, we're going to go ahead and agree with him there:

New UNC playmaker Matt Able is ready to put on a show for Michael Malone and the Heels

Tell us how you really feel, young man. In the comments from that video, someone asked Able why he left NC State to join a rival program.

"Better fit," Able said. "Higher level."

A simple response from the sharpshooter, but one that speaks volumes. While NC State fans still want to brag about the big win over Carolina last season, don't forget that both Caleb Wilson and Henri Veesaar were out of action for that one due to injuries. The Wolfpack were running their mouths after that victory, but UNC didn't lose any sleep over things.

And looking ahead to next season, we don't have to tell you which team has the better outlook. Able officially joining Michael Malone and Co. is also a massive offseason win. There was worry that Able was going to potentially keep his name in the NBA Draft, but he ended that speculation this spring, with his full focus on taking his game to the next level.

If all goes to plan, it wouldn't be a surprise at all if Able becomes a first-round pick as early as the 2027 draft, because his potential is quite high. He was a 5-star prospect coming out of high school, which alone should have the UNC faithful pretty dang excited.

Last season in his lone year with NC State, the 6-6, 205-pounder averaged 8.8 points and 3.4 rebounds per game. What can we expect out of him in 2026-27? Anything in the 15-20 points per night category would be pretty dang good now that Able's going to be in a starting role for the ACC powerhouse.

Able has been on his grind in recent weeks, getting his mind and body ready for next season, with his shooting alone standing out. The sophomore knows there will be high expectations for him next campaign during Malone's debut year with Carolina, but there's no doubt in our minds that Able will deliver and then some for this team. He's simply too good a player not to.

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