Two Tar Heels Return to Chapel Hill

A duo from the 2022 runner-up team have returned to North Carolina. Welcome back, Brady Manek and Leaky Black!

Earlier today, the North Carolina basketball page posted a photo of Brady Manek and Leaky Black reuniting in Chapel Hill. Every Summer, alumni come back to work out and play with the current team. It is part of what makes the Carolina family special!

Back in Chapel Hill

• Brady Manek: One year transfer and vocal leader for the 2021-2022 Tar Heels, Manek is a beloved figure the last two years. After not starting at the beginning of his lone season, Manek worked his way into the starting lineup and never looked back. He averaged 15.1 points and 6.1 rebounds, helping lead the Tar Heels to the national championship. Always a threat from three, Manek was the Tar Heels best shooter that season and has been a fan favorite ever since. Manek now plays in Australia and Turkey, and is making a name for himself in international play.
• Leaky Black: The five year Tar Heel from Concord really came into his own during his last two seasons. Known as a defensive specialist, Black was tasked with guarding the other teams best guard or wing. He did a masterful job throughout his career, being named to the All-ACC Defensive Team twice. Now, Black is preparing for the NBA draft and has worked out for numerous teams. Leaky will likely get a two-way contract and become a “Three and D” style player wherever he lands.

Seeing players come back is a staple of Carolina basketball. It gives the program a family feel that other programs can only copy, not replicate. Additionally, if not for injuries in the tournament, these two Tar Heels would likely be national champions. Either way, seeing both Brady and Leaky in Chapel Hill will always be a welcome sight.