UNC should be all over this Syracuse star if he transfers after Adrian Autry's firing

UNC should be keeping close tabs on what's happening at Syracuse.
Mar 7, 2026; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange head coach Adrian Autry looks on during the second half against the Pittsburgh Panthers at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-Imagn Images
Mar 7, 2026; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange head coach Adrian Autry looks on during the second half against the Pittsburgh Panthers at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-Imagn Images | Rich Barnes-Imagn Images

The coaching carousel in the ACC continues, as Syracuse becomes the latest program to make a head coaching change.

After three seasons at the helm, Adrian Autry has been relieved of his duties. This was the expected outcome, given the Orange haven't made the NCAA Tournament over that span of time.

Of course, in today's world of college athletics, this story is even bigger given the implications it could have on Syracuse's roster. All eyes will be on the guys who still have eligibility remaining, as some names will capture the attention of programs looking to add talent for next season.

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There's one player UNC should be keeping very close tabs on. If he decides to test his luck in the transfer portal, the Tar Heels should go on a full pursuit to lure him to Chapel Hill.

Donnie Freeman makes a ton of sense for UNC

Tar Heel fans saw first-hand what Donnie Freeman can do on a basketball court.

When Syracuse came to Chapel Hill on February 2, Freeman was nearly unstoppable. He finished with 28 points and eight rebounds, as he was the sole reason the Orange were able to even stay in the game.

While North Carolina did a much better job at limiting his success in the rematch a few weeks later, what he brings to the table is extremely intriguing.

Proven in the ACC

Transfer additions are a hit and miss type of game. They either work out really well or simply aren't a fit.

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What makes Freeman even more enticing is the fact that this dude has balled out in the ACC. During his sophomore season, the 6-foot-9 forward from Washington, DC averaged 16.5 points and 7.2 rebounds, knocking down 47.4% of his shots from the floor. He can also stretch the floor a bit, as he is a 31.1% three-point shooter throughout his first two college seasons.

Of course, North Carolina's interest will rely heavily on what happens with its own roster. The Tar Heels might not have a glaring need in the frontcourt (which would mean either one or both of Caleb Wilson/Henri Veesaar return for another season), so it will all depend on what happens following the conclusion of the 2025-2026 season.

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If there ends up being a need in the front court, North Carolina should go all-in on bringing Donnie Freeman to Chapel Hill.

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