North Carolina announced the hiring of veteran NBA agent Jim Tanner as the men’s basketball executive director and general manager, alongside a contract extension for coach Hubert Davis. Inside Carolina analysts Greg Barnes, Sherrell McMillan, and Sean Moran joined host Joey Powell on the Coast to Coast show to discuss these significant developments for UNC basketball. They touched on the timing of Davis’ extension, Tanner’s role within the program, and his connections to international talent, among other topics. Here’s a summary of what the panel had to say regarding these changes:
COMBINED ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR STRATEGIC REASONS
Barnes explained that UNC wanted to present the GM hire and the contract extension as a unified announcement to generate positive PR, especially since the Wolfpack had a challenging season. He noted that while the extension was finalized last year following the previous season’s success, bureaucratic delays postponed the official signing until December. The announcement made sense in light of the GM hiring.
DAVIS’ BUYOUT IS MANAGEABLE EVEN IF STRUGGLES CONTINUE
Barnes commented that Hubert Davis’ buyout is approximately $ 6 million, decreasing each year and running through 2030. This structure provides stability for recruiting and allows reassurance to prospects about Davis’ future. If next season does not go well, changes can be considered, but there isn’t much concern over the buyout amount compared to past coaching buyouts. There will be pressure for Davis to perform, but the university is committed to supporting him.
TANNER IS A STRONG CHOICE FOR THE GM POSITION
McMillan praised Tanner as an impressive hire, highlighting that it was unexpected for someone of his stature to leave his agency for the GM role. He noted that Tanner is a Carolina alum with deep ties to Chapel Hill and brings valuable outside perspectives, as he hasn’t previously been part of the coaching staff.
TANNER ENABLES DAVIS TO FOCUS ON COACHING
Barnes described Tanner’s role as crucial in streamlining the recruitment process by allowing him to handle communications with agents and managing staff to assist the coaching team. This arrangement alleviates pressure on Davis and his staff, enabling them to concentrate on coaching.
UNC IS PIONEERING WITH AN EXPERIENCED GM HIRE
Moran emphasized the importance of time management with Tanner taking on responsibilities that previously burdened the coaching staff. Tanner will establish budgets and build relationships with agents, which will aid in recruitment. UNC is among the first to hire a seasoned executive for this role rather than a younger person reporting directly to the coach.
TANNER’S CONNECTIONS TO INTERNATIONAL TALENT WILL BE BENEFICIAL
Moran noted that Tanner’s agency has connections with top international players, enhancing UNC’s recruitment efforts. The growing attractiveness of international players in college basketball, together with high school recruits and transfer portal talent, underscores the importance of scouting across these areas.
TANNER’S ARRIVAL INDICATES A SHIFT IN COLLEGE BASKETBALL POLITICS
McMillan suggested that UNC’s hiring of Tanner signifies a shift away from the traditional head coach-centric model in college basketball. He feels Tanner is positioned to co-manage Carolina basketball with Davis, rather than just serving as an assistant.
TANNER BRINGS VALUABLE INSIGHT FOR THE CURRENT PORTAL WINDOW
McMillan pointed out that Tanner likely has unique knowledge from his agency connections about which players may enter the transfer portal. This insider information, along with his international contacts, will help him understand player dynamics and retention as he finds his footing in his new role.
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