With roster construction entering a critical phase, North Carolina’s frontcourt situation is starting to come into sharper focus—though not without a bit of uncertainty. Following the departure of Henri Veesaar, head coach Michael Malone has made it clear that replenishing size, athleticism, and versatility in the paint is a top priority.
The Tar Heels already made an intriguing international addition in Sayon Keita, a 7-footer with long-term upside. However, at just 18 years old and still developing physically, Keita may not yet be ready to shoulder heavy minutes at the college level. That reality makes it essential for UNC to bring in at least one more dependable big man to stabilize the rotation.
Initially, one of the most promising targets was Mouhamed Faye, a skilled and mature 21-year-old center currently playing in Paris. But momentum in his recruitment appears to be shifting toward St. John’s Red Storm, led by Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino. If Faye ultimately lands in Queens, UNC will need to pivot quickly—but not desperately.
Despite the transfer portal thinning out, the international market still offers several viable options. Here are three strong contingency plans the Tar Heels could turn to if Faye is no longer attainable.
1. BRICE DESSERT: THE READY-MADE INTERIOR FORCE
If UNC is looking for the most seamless fit, Brice Dessert may be the answer. At 6-foot-11 and 247 pounds, Dessert brings a physical presence that immediately addresses one of the team’s biggest needs—strength and interior stability.
Unlike Keita, who is still filling out his frame, Dessert is already built to battle in the paint. His offensive game thrives around the rim, where he operates effectively as a lob target, roll man, and finisher in tight spaces. That aligns perfectly with Malone’s apparent vision of surrounding playmakers with vertical spacing threats.
Dessert’s ability to set solid screens and dive hard to the basket makes him especially dangerous in pick-and-roll situations. He doesn’t need the ball in his hands to impact the game, which allows guards like Terrence Brown to dictate the offense while still leveraging Dessert’s presence.
Equally important, his age (23) and experience would bring maturity to a relatively young frontcourt. Pairing him with Keita and Cade Bennerman would give UNC a balanced mix of upside and reliability—something every contender needs.
2. MICHAEL RUZIC: THE MODERN STRETCH BIG
For a different stylistic approach, Michael Ruzic offers a compelling alternative. At 6-foot-10, the 19-year-old forward brings perimeter shooting that could dramatically expand UNC’s offensive versatility.
Ruzic is reportedly drawing interest from programs like BYU Cougars and Kentucky Wildcats, but that shouldn’t deter the Tar Heels if they believe he fits their system.
What sets Ruzic apart is his ability to stretch the floor. Shooting near 40% from beyond the arc, he can operate in pick-and-pop situations, forcing opposing defenses to step out of the paint. That spacing would be invaluable for a team looking to maximize driving lanes and offensive flow.
While he may not replicate Veesaar’s rim protection, Ruzic compensates with offensive flexibility. He can play alongside Keita, allowing UNC to toggle between traditional and modern lineups depending on matchups.
His presence would also create new dynamics for guards, particularly in half-court sets where spacing often determines efficiency. If Malone is aiming to diversify the offense, Ruzic could be a strategic addition rather than just a fallback option.
3. EGOR RYZHOV: THE ATHLETIC UPSIDE SWING
Another intriguing name to monitor is Egor Ryzhov, a 6-foot-11 forward with notable athleticism and untapped potential.
Ryzhov previously flirted with the college route, even committing to Florida State Seminoles before ultimately deciding to stay overseas. Now, with renewed interest in making the jump to NCAA basketball, the timing could finally align.
His playing style mirrors Keita in several ways. He thrives as a rim-runner, excels in transition, and is a consistent lob threat. That makes him a natural fit in systems that emphasize pace and vertical spacing.
However, Ryzhov is more of a developmental prospect compared to Dessert. While his ceiling is appealing, he may require time to adjust to the physicality and structure of college basketball.
Still, if UNC is willing to invest in potential, Ryzhov represents a high-upside gamble who could evolve into a major contributor down the line.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Missing out on Mouhamed Faye would undoubtedly be a setback, but it wouldn’t leave North Carolina without direction. Each of these three options—Dessert, Ruzic, and Ryzhov—offers a distinct skill set that could help fill the void in different ways.
Whether Malone prioritizes immediate impact, offensive versatility, or long-term upside will ultimately determine which path UNC takes. One thing is clear: the Tar Heels are far from out of options, and their ability to adapt could define their ceiling heading into the season.
