What changed
2026-10-09 17:01 UTC → 2026-10-10 16:19 UTC ·
added
removed
Following The North Carolina Tar Heels secured an 88–70 exhibition victory over the first official practice on September 23, returning players Isaiah Denis, Jarin Stevenson, and Jaydon Young met with media to discuss USC Trojans in Greensboro, marking the transition under debut of head coach Michael Malone. Young noted that Malone has brought a “high level of energy While newcomers Terrence Brown and passion” to Matt Able struggled with scoring and turnovers, the team since the start of practice. The coaching change is intended to increase accountability relied on veteran production and prevent the energy lulls seen in previous seasons, while Stevenson is reportedly working toward a more vocal leadership role. As the season approaches, analysts have begun projecting strong defensive adjustments to overcome a starting lineup that may include Neoklis Avdalas, Terrence Brown, Matt Able, halftime deficit. Jarin Stevenson, Stevenson led the offense with 25 points and Sayon Keita. 10 rebounds. Other notable performances included Neo Avdalas, a transfer from Virginia Tech, is highlighted for his unique skillset as a 6-foot-9 guard. Head coach Michael Malone, a former NBA champion, is currently navigating the transition from coaching professionals to mentoring college athletes. He noted that his role now involves helping 17 to 19-year-old players grow as young men who recorded 15 points, nine rebounds, and five assists in addition to tactical coaching. The roster is being rebuilt through the transfer portal with additions such as Niou Dallas, Terrence Brown, 24 minutes, and Matt Abel, though the team faces uncertainty regarding the eligibility of 7-foot transfer Cameron Fens. Isaiah Denis, who contributed 14 points. Malone has emphasized a system utilizing a group of ‘connectors’ in the backcourt, where multiple players, including Terrence Brown, will share ball-handling duties. The program is set to begin highlighted the Malone era with team’s second-half defensive turnaround as a preseason exhibition game against decisive factor in the USC Trojans, scheduled for Friday, October 9, at win, noting that the First Horizon Coliseum in Greensboro. Malone is expected to use improved intensity helped shift the matchup to test various rotation combinations and starting lineups. momentum.