When Nyla Harris first went through the recruiting process as a highly touted prospect, North Carolina was on her radar. But like many young athletes weighing options, she ultimately chose another path, committing to Louisville. Two years later, the story has come full circle, and Harris now finds herself in Chapel Hill — a decision she says feels like home in every way.
The talented forward announced her transfer to UNC for her final college season, giving the Tar Heels a powerful addition to their frontcourt. But for Harris, the decision was about more than basketball. “The first time around I didn’t choose Carolina,” she admitted. “But this time, everything just lined up — it felt right.”
On the court, Harris brings toughness, size, and experience from her time with Louisville. She played key minutes in high-pressure ACC matchups, learning how to compete at the highest level of women’s basketball. Now, she’ll bring that same firepower to a Tar Heel squad with championship ambitions under head coach Courtney Banghart.
Still, Harris says what truly won her over this time was the atmosphere around the program. From the moment she stepped back on campus, she felt the bond between players and coaches. “It’s a family here,” Harris explained. “You can tell everyone looks out for each other, and that’s something I really wanted to be part of.”
Beyond basketball, UNC also offered Harris the chance to chase another passion: broadcasting. With aspirations to work in media after her playing career, she was drawn to the opportunities available at Chapel Hill, a school well-known for producing successful journalists and broadcasters.
“Carolina has such a rich tradition not just in sports, but also in the classroom,” Harris said. “I want to prepare for life after basketball, and I know UNC gives me the platform to do that.” That balance of athletics and academics helped seal her decision.
For Banghart and her coaching staff, Harris is more than just a roster addition. She’s a competitor who understands what it takes to win in the ACC and someone who can mentor younger players while contributing immediately. “Nyla has the energy, the toughness, and the leadership that will elevate our team,” Banghart noted.
Fans in Chapel Hill have already welcomed Harris with open arms, excited by the blend of experience and versatility she brings. She has the ability to guard multiple positions and crash the boards, something UNC will rely on in a league where physical play is the norm.
But Harris’ arrival is also about unfinished business. After coming close to choosing UNC once before, she now has the chance to live out the dream she passed on. “It’s funny how things work out,” she smiled. “Sometimes the timing just has to be right.”
As she begins her final season, Harris says her goals are clear: help the Tar Heels make a deep NCAA Tournament run, continue growing as a player, and set herself up for a career in sports broadcasting. “I’m excited for what’s ahead,” she said. “This is the perfect place for me.”
For UNC, gaining a player who once said no but returned when the time was right feels like destiny. And for Nyla Harris, saying yes to Carolina the second time around might be the decision that defines her career — both on and off the court.
