UNC fans already know what happens when Matt Able gets comfortable behind the three-point line.
We all watched him score 19 points and drain five threes against the Tar Heels last season. Now, the former NC State guard has switched sides, bringing that shooting potential to Michael Malone’s first roster at North Carolina.
The challenge now is turning a familiar threat into a dependable weapon.
What you need to know about Matt Able
Class: Sophomore
Position: Guard
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 200 pounds
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland
High school: Sagemont Prep
Previous school: NC State
Able averaged 8.8 points in 34 games as a freshman. He made 49 three-pointers at a 35.5% clip and finished second on NC State’s team with 42 steals.
Of course, there are some that say NC State didn't fully unlock Able's potential during his time in Raleigh.
What Matt Able brings to UNC
Able’s shooting could have an impact even on possessions when he never touches the ball.
If defenders have to stay attached to him on the perimeter, UNC’s ball handlers gain room to attack, and its big men encounter less help around the basket. When the defense does collapse, Able needs to make it pay.
His performance against Indiana provided an encouraging response after a scoreless outing against USC. Able finished with 11 points and made 3 of 5 three-point attempts against the Hoosiers. It was a taste of what he can do when he gets open looks and scores early.
The biggest question surrounding Matt Able
Can Able contribute consistently when his jumper isn’t falling?
Every perimeter shooter experiences difficult nights. The difference between a useful scorer and a dependable starter often comes down to what survives those nights.
Making the next pass, competing defensively, and finding opportunities to cut or attack a closeout would keep Able involved without forcing shots.
What does a successful season look like for Matt Able?
After going through the NBA Draft process this offseason, this year is all about continued development for Able.
He'll have plenty of opportunities to enhance his game, working on the areas that scouts noted he could improve upon. Of course, Michael Malone wants to unlock Able's full potential and will rely on him to be a heavy contributor this season.
A successful season for Able is one that features consistent shooting, increased playmaking and strong defense to anchor the Tar Heels backcourt.
The bottom line
Able's strong suit is his shooting, and UNC will need him to show that all season long. However, the Tar Heels will need him to be the guy they know he can be in every aspect of the game, not just rely on shooting to keep him on the court.
If all goes as planned, Able's stay in Chapel Hill won't be long, as scouts will be keeping a very close eye on him all season long.
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