This offseason has been a challenging experience for the North Carolina Tar Heels' basketball program.

That is especially true of head coach Michael Malone , who took over just a month ago. While other coaches around the country were finalizing their portal targets, Malone was assembling a coaching staff.

Apr 6, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone during the second quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

That being said, the 54-year-old head coach has built a roster in his image, and it has been apparent in the players the Tar Heels have pursued in the transfer portal.…