The Michael Malone era is off and running, with the new North Carolina coach working overtime now that he's been handed the big job in Chapel Hill. First, Malone made a huge splash in hiring Chuck Martin away from Arkansas and John Calipari.
UNC hiring Chuck Martin could help Michael Malone land this coveted transfer
Now, Malone is eyeing talent in the portal who he thinks would be a good fit for his system. Karter Knox has jumped out as a main target, along with Juke Harris and others. However, it's time for the UNC faithful to keep an eye on Santa Clara guard Christian Hammond, as reporter Sam Kayser has reported UNC and Malone have already been in contact with him. Could a visit to campus be in the works?
Santa Clara transfer Christian Hammond tells @LeagueRDY he’s receiving interest from the following schools:
— Sam Kayser (@KayserHoops) April 8, 2026
North Carolina
Cincinnati
USC
Xavier
Ole Miss
NC State
The 6-foot-4 guard out of Denver, Colorado had a big season for the Broncos. He averaged 15.6PPG, 3.0RPG, 2.5APG… https://t.co/MKhYUWurYy pic.twitter.com/3J7bV3ukXw
UNC and Michael Malone reportedly showing interest in guard transfer Christian Hammond
While Hammond may not be known as a superstar around college hoops circles, there's no doubt at all that this kid can ball out when his number is called. This past season for the Broncos, he took home First-Team All-WCC honors after averaging more than 15 points per game.
He added three rebounds and 2.5 assists per contest as well. With him being a strong shooter and a fantastic passer, the door could be open here for Carolina to make a move. It should be noted that Jon Rothstein just reported that Hammond is set to visit NC State soon.
Nothing has been set with North Carolina there in terms of an official visit, but it's clear that Malone is a fan of the youngster's game. With Malone set to have more interviews with players currently on the roster, we should have a better idea soon enough too on who will for sure be back and who will for sure be gone.
Once more decisions are set in stone, it will lead to Malone and his new staff, which is still being put together, to lock in visits with priority transfers they have high on their board. Hammond will certainly be a player for fans to keep an eye on moving forward, as he'd be an intriguing option for the Tar Heels to go after.