Kade Nix is a sports writer covering North Carolina on SI. He specializes in college basketball, college football, and the NFL. In 2021, he founded Kade’s Draft Room, a sports website that ran until 2025, and has an extensive background writing for multiple channels and sports websites. In addition to his writing experience, Kade has hands-on sports scouting experience, including time as a Texas area scout for the Hula Bowl, giving him a unique perspective on player evaluation and the college sports landscape.
The 2026 season hasn't started yet, but Michael Malone is already looking ahead. These three elite 2027 prospects could become major priorities for North Carolina's future.
The ACC is loaded with talent once again. Here are the five games that could present the biggest challenge for North Carolina in Michael Malone’s first season.
Not everything went wrong for North Carolina last season. These four statistical strengths could give Michael Malone a strong foundation heading into year one.
North Carolina knows its NCAA Tournament path, and the road to Omaha won’t be easy as the Tar Heels prepare to open regional play against VCU in Chapel Hill.
North Carolina’s starters are beginning to emerge, but Michael Malone still has major rotation decisions to make that could shape the Tar Heels’ success next season.