Why 4-Star Montgomery Could Be Perfect Fit for UNC

A versatile 4-star forward with a unique skill set is set to visit Chapel Hill this fall.

Apr 6, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone reacts towards referee Danielle Scott (87) in the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

North Carolina and Michael Malone better be on their best behavior.

Malone has once again landed a visit from another highly touted recruit, making this 2027 recruiting cycle a very promising one for Tar Heels fans. 

Dec 13, 2022; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; A view of the center court logo at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports | USA TODAY Sports

Chapel Hill will be hosting 4-star Asa Montgomery for an official visit on Sept. 25. North Carolina will be one of many stops for the talented small forward.

Montgomery's Visit Schedule

Montgomery’s official visiting tour will begin with LSU on Aug. 28 and will make stops at Florida, UConn, Providence, North Carolina, Duke, and Arizona before finishing with a trip to Louisville on Oct. 30. 

Visit News: Asa Montgomery, the No. 42 overall prospect in the class of 2027, has locked in several official visits, he tells @247Sports https://t.co/tLXZmf4Ns9 pic.twitter.com/nAUTV2d4Tc

— Dushawn London (@DushawnLondon1) August 20, 2026

Montgomery is a 6’7" small forward prospect from Powder Springs, Georgia. He’s ranked a 4-star by 247Sports and listed as the 42nd overall prospect and 11th-ranked small forward in the 2027 class. 

Unfortunately for Heels fans, 247Sports has also given only two teams a “warm” rating relating to Montgomery’s interest, and Duke is one of them. The two blue-blooded rivals will once again battle it out, this time off the court. 

Mar 15, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone following a timeout in the fourth quarter against the Washington Wizards at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Montgomery’s versatility is what makes him unique for North Carolina. He possesses a 6'10" wingspan and has the versatility to excel in roles as a wing or as a stretch four. 

NBA Comparison Connects to Malone

When watching Asa Montgomery’s film, he may draw a comparison to a Nuggets player who won an NBA Championship under Michael Malone.

Mar 24, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone gestures in the third quarter against the Chicago Bulls at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Both Montgomery and Aaron Gordon share similarities in their archetype. Both guys are explosive, versatile combo forwards with similar frames. 

Both also have defensive versatility, allowing them to defend multiple positions on the floor. Montgomery’s energy, offensive rebounding, and cutting to finish around the rim all come off as similarities between him and the former NBA Champion.  

Apr 18, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (32) handles the ball against Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) during the first half in game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Overall, Montgomery has major upside that Malone can hopefully bring to Chapel Hill. Malone has already done excellent work in gaining interest from many of the top recruits this cycle, with Montgomery being the latest to report mutual interest. 

It could be an excellent offseason for the Heels if they can turn these interests into commitments. I wouldn’t expect any of these top recruits to make up their mind anytime in the near future, but it’s good to know North Carolina is at the front of their minds. 

Michael Malone will have to continue working to make sure Montgomery knows where home is, and better yet, why committing to Chapel Hill is certainly better than the school down the road.