UNC has a lot to look at in replacing its frontcourt.
North Carolina is looking to rebuild a frontcourt that has been decimated due to Harrison Ingram going pro and Armando Bacot running out of eligibility. Unlike the center position (which we looked over, here), there are a lot of options left uncommitted that could play the power forward role of Ingram.
Uncommitted Forwards
Coleman Hawkins– Recently mentioned by CBS Sports’ Matt Norlander as one to potentially watch for North Carolina, Hawkins would be a perfect fit. Although listed as a power forward, he played a lot of center at Illinois. Hawkins would be a home run for the Tar Heels should he return to college.
2023-2024 Averages: 12.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. Also shot 36.9% from three as a 6’10 big man.
Dillon Mitchell– A former 5-star McDonald’s All-American, Mitchell is an athletic forward with major slashing ability. He does not shoot many threes and hasn’t made one in his two-year college career, but is a good rebounder and scorer around the rim.
2023-2024 Averages: 9.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. Made 58.5% of his shot attempts this season and stands at 6’8.
JT Toppin– Another very athletic player, he stands at 6’9 and will be a sophomore next season. Toppin was named the Mountain West Freshman of the Year and helped lead the team to the Round of 32 in the NCAA Tournament.
2023-2024 Averages: 12.4 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game.
Ven-Allen Lubin– Already having played in the ACC at Notre Dame, this will be his second time transferring. Lubin spent last season under UNC legend Jerry Stackhouse at Vanderbilt. He also played with Cormac Ryan.
2023-2024 Averages: 12.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1 block per game.
Current State of the Position
At the moment, UNC still has Jae’Lyn Withers and Zayden High, who are traditionally power forwards. They also have Cade Tyson, who could slot into the role in small-ball lineups. However, depth is needed, and replacing Ingram’s production will be key.
Who do you think would be UNC’s best option between these four?
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