The next 24 hours could shape the future of North Carolina Tar Heels basketball heading into the 2026-27 season. All eyes are now focused on talented guard Matt Able as he weighs one of the biggest decisions of his young career: remain in the 2026 NBA Draft or return to college and suit up for the Tar Heels under first-year head coach Michael Malone.
The deadline for prospects to withdraw from the NBA Draft and maintain college eligibility arrives on May 27, and anxiety among the UNC fan base continues to rise by the hour. Still, despite the uncertainty surrounding Able’s future, a growing trend across college basketball is giving Tar Heel supporters plenty of reason to stay optimistic.
Over the last several days, a number of highly talented players projected as borderline first-round or second-round picks have chosen to withdraw from the draft and return to school for another season. That list includes John Blackwell of Duke Blue Devils, Rueben Chinyelu from Florida Gators, Malachi Moreno of Kentucky Wildcats, and Flory Bidunga from Louisville Cardinals.
While every player’s situation is different, the overall message remains clear: this year’s NBA Draft class is extremely deep and competitive. Because of the elite talent entering the draft pool, many players who might normally secure guaranteed first-round positions are instead facing uncertainty regarding their draft stock. That reality is forcing several prospects to seriously reconsider whether entering the NBA now is truly the best move for their long-term development and financial future.
For Matt Able, that trend could work heavily in North Carolina’s favor.
Able entered the pre-draft process hoping to improve his standing after an inconsistent freshman season at North Carolina State. Although flashes of his scoring ability and athletic upside were evident throughout the year, he did not fully establish himself as a guaranteed first-round selection before arriving at the NBA Draft Combine. However, recent performances have helped restore some momentum to his stock.
According to ESPN NBA Draft analyst Jeremy Woo, Able made a strong impression during combine scrimmages and interviews, particularly with his offensive skill set and natural scoring instincts.
Woo explained that Able arrived in Chicago hoping to rebuild momentum after an up-and-down freshman campaign. During the combine, he showcased improved confidence and shot-making ability, including an impressive outing in which he scored 17 points while knocking down four three-pointers.
Even with those encouraging performances, questions still remain about whether Able is fully prepared to contribute immediately at the NBA level. Woo also noted concerns regarding Able’s measurements for an NBA wing, particularly his size. Still, his plus wingspan, large hands, athleticism, and youth continue to intrigue scouts and front offices around the league.
Most importantly, Able has not yet turned 20 years old, meaning he still has significant room for growth both physically and mentally. Another strong college season could dramatically elevate his draft position in 2027 and potentially move him into clear first-round territory.
That is exactly why many around college basketball believe returning to Chapel Hill would ultimately be the smartest decision.
If Able returns to North Carolina, he would immediately become one of the most important pieces on Michael Malone’s roster. His scoring ability, perimeter shooting, defensive upside, and overall versatility would give the Tar Heels another high-level weapon in what is expected to be a highly competitive ACC season.
For Malone, keeping Able would also represent a massive early victory in his tenure as UNC’s head coach. Malone is working to build momentum, establish culture, and position the Tar Heels as national contenders once again. Retaining a player with Able’s talent and upside would send a powerful message about the direction of the program.
On the court, Able’s return could dramatically elevate North Carolina’s ceiling. The Tar Heels are expected to rely heavily on athletic guard play, transition offense, and defensive versatility next season, and Able fits perfectly into that vision. His ability to create offense, stretch the floor, and attack defenders off the dribble could make him one of the breakout stars in college basketball.
Of course, until the announcement becomes official, uncertainty will remain. NBA opportunities are difficult to pass up, and every prospect dreams of reaching the league as quickly as possible. Still, recent decisions made by several other talented players may provide the blueprint Able ultimately follows.
Returning to college is no longer viewed as a setback. In today’s basketball landscape, another year of development can significantly improve a player’s draft stock, confidence, NIL opportunities, and overall readiness for professional basketball.
That reality is why optimism continues to grow in Chapel Hill.
With the withdrawal deadline rapidly approaching, the Tar Heel faithful are anxiously waiting for one final answer. If current trends are any indication, however, North Carolina may soon receive the news it has been hoping for all along: Matt Able is coming back to Chapel Hill.
