According to a source close to CBS Sports’ Matt Norlander, North Carolina’s standout center, Henri Veesaar, has declared for the 2026 NBA Draft. The 7-footer earned Second Team All-ACC honors, delivering an impressive 17.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, coupled with an excellent 42% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc.
Currently positioned at No. 26 in CBS Sports’ NBA Draft prospect evaluations, Veesaar was initially seen as a late first-round selection. However, his draft stock could rise significantly following announcements from other potential first-round talents—including Florida’s Thomas Haugh, Duke’s Patrick Ngongba, and UConn’s Braylon Mullins—who have all committed to returning to collegiate play for the upcoming season.
Despite a substantial NIL offer from North Carolina, which would have likely made Veesaar the Preseason ACC Player of the Year for the 2026-27 season, he is anticipated to remain in the NBA Draft. While a return to UNC is technically still an option, it’s considered improbable unless he has a sudden change of mind.
This decision represents a significant setback for North Carolina’s prospects in the immediate 2026-27 season, particularly for new coach Michael Malone. While the Tar Heels have been active and successful in the transfer portal, securing three top-50 talents in Neoklis Avdalas from Virginia Tech, Terrence Brown from Utah, and Matt Able from NC State, Veesaar was slated to be their cornerstone.
Coach Malone is now forced to swiftly identify a replacement, but the market for centers is currently sparse. Massamba Diop of Arizona State stands out as the highest-rated big man available, although Gonzaga and St. John’s are strong contenders for his commitment, which is expected soon. Another compelling option is Cincinnati transfer Moustapha Thiam, a 7-foot shot-blocking specialist recently hosted by Michigan.
Additional prospective centers for UNC to consider include Julius Halaifonua, transferring from Georgetown; Franck Kepnang, a big man from Washington; and Luke Bamgboye, who is transferring from Texas Tech.
However, the clock is ticking for the Tar Heels. Close to 90 of the top 100 players available in the 2026 transfer portal cycle have already finalized their commitments.