UNC Targeting Experienced Forward to Strengthen Frontcourt
Although the addition of Michael Malone through the transfer portal gave North Carolina’s roster a significant boost, the Tar Heels are still looking to reinforce one of their biggest areas of need—the frontcourt.
On paper, UNC has assembled an intriguing group of players, and few would have predicted the roster would take this shape at this stage of the offseason. While the talent is there, the next challenge will be seeing how all the new pieces fit together. With one scholarship spot still available, the coaching staff is focused on adding another proven big man.
According to multiple reports, Villanova forward Duke Brennan has drawn interest from North Carolina. The Tar Heels join a competitive list of programs pursuing the veteran, including UConn, Oregon, USC, Ole Miss, Georgetown, UCLA, Oklahoma, and Villanova, which is also hoping to bring him back. Brennan recently received a fifth year of eligibility, creating an unexpected opportunity for teams looking to add an experienced frontcourt player.
Brennan’s Strong 2025 Campaign
Brennan put together one of the most productive seasons of his career in 2025. He finished with 14 double-doubles, tying a Villanova program record, while averaging 12.4 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. He also converted an impressive 65.8 percent of his field-goal attempts, showcasing his efficiency around the basket.
While he isn’t known as a perimeter shooter, Brennan consistently produces in the paint and has proven to be one of the nation’s more reliable rebounders and interior scorers.
Why Brennan Would Be a Great Fit for the Tar Heels
North Carolina’s biggest uncertainty entering the upcoming season remains its frontcourt. Jarin Stevenson is the only returning contributor with college experience in that position group, providing some familiarity but leaving plenty of unanswered questions behind him.
The Tar Heels are counting on newcomers Sayon Keita, Alexandros Samodurov, and Cade Bennerman, none of whom have appeared in an NCAA game. Keita and Samodurov arrive with professional experience overseas and bring considerable upside.
Keita possesses elite athleticism and projects as a high-level defensive presence, though his offensive game remains a work in progress. Samodurov offers a more versatile offensive skill set, capable of handling the ball, facilitating offense, and scoring from inside and beyond the arc. However, adding strength to his frame will likely be an important part of his development.
Given the inexperience in UNC’s frontcourt, Brennan would provide immediate stability and proven production. His rebounding, efficiency, and veteran leadership could help solidify a position group that still has several unknowns.
North Carolina has also shown interest in Florida center Micah Handlogten and South Dakota standout Cameron Fens, making it clear the staff is exploring multiple options rather than focusing solely on Brennan. Even so, Brennan appears to be one of the most attractive targets remaining on the market and could be the ideal addition to complete the Tar Heels’ roster.
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