When Jim Tanner was named the first general manager in the history of the UNC basketball program, he noted that the Tar Heels would be active in the market for the top available players, whether that meant recruiting US talent or looking overseas to address some important roster needs.
"I look forward to using my 28 years of experience recruiting and representing players to help position UNC as strategic, adaptive, and innovative in scouting and attracting top domestic and international talent while staying true to the principles and values that have defined Carolina Basketball over the years."
In need of help on the wing, North Carolina has been in contact with German prospect Ivan Kharchenkov. This news was first reported by both the likes of Inside Carolina and Tar Heel Illustrated.
In case your not familiar with Kharchenkov, here's some information on the international talent"
Kharchenkov is a 6-foot-6 wing who played the 2024-2025 season for Bayern Munich, the top club team in Germany. He earned some EuroLeague experience, which is considered to be the top international league.
He's a physical presence, filling out his 6-foot-6 frame with 220+ pounds of muscle. A player who can impact the game in a variety of ways, Kharchenkov is a very capable rebounder and scorer. Although he hasn't shown much consistency behind the three-point line, Kharchenkov is more than able to knock down shots from deep, an area of his game that could definitely improve over time.
If you haven't seen him in action, check out the below link to get a glimpse of what he's capable of doing on the court.
🇩🇪 German prospect Ivan Kharchenkov today for Bayern Munich in the win over Gottingen
— nbadraftpoint (@nbadraftpoint) May 4, 2025
17 points
5 boards
4 steals
7-9 FG
1-2 3P
2-6 FT
22 minutes
The 6’6 wing has had a solid season in limited minutes for Bayern Munich, as a slasher and shooter on the wing. pic.twitter.com/ZbdOgDQSHE
With Drake Powell entering the NBA Draft, the UNC basketball has searched far and wide for some help on the wing. A player of Kharchenkov's caliber could be a major addition for North Carolina, as he could help fill the void left by Powell's departure.
If Kharchenkov eventually decides to pursue the college basketball route in the United States, expect the UNC basketball program to put together a strong push to bring him to Chapel Hill.