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Comparing Matt Able's incoming UNC transfer to Ven-Allen Lubin
TL;DR
Ven-Allen Lubin transferred from UNC to NC State, surprising fans after expressing a desire to stay. Meanwhile, Matt Able from NC State has committed to UNC, marking a notable player exchange between the rival teams.
Key points
- Ven-Allen Lubin transferred from UNC to NC State
- Matt Able committed to UNC from NC State
- Both players exchanged teams in a notable rivalry
- Lubin had a strong performance against UNC last season
- UNC lost a center with Lubin's departure
Ven-Allen LubinMatt AbleUNCNC State
Make no mistake: the UNC and NC State men's basketball team's don't like each other. Sure, UNC-Duke is the premier rivalry, but that's based on history compared to pure hatred.
During the 2025 offseason, Ven-Allen Lubin shocked Tar Heel Nation when he transferred to the Wolfpack, particularly after stating his desire to return. Lubin got the better of North Carolina last season, scoring 12 points and grabbing six rebounds in an 82-58 blowout.
On Tuesday, State guard Matt Able committed to UNC in the portal. This now marks the second-straight offseason in which players swapped rivalry teams, showing that past hatred means virtually nothing.
Lubin started 20 of the Tar Heels' 38 games during their 2024-25 season, proving the significantly better option over Jalen Washington. When he left Chapel Hill, North Carolina found itself down a center with extensive collegiate experience.
Able, a freshman, proved himself as a valuable bench option for the Wolfpack last season. In 21.7 minutes per game across 34 appearances, Able averaged 8.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 0.9 assists per game.
State fans likely aren't the greatest fans of Able's decision, but UNC fans are thrilled. With the Tar Heels still finalizing their 2026-27 roster, Able will get a golden chance at starting minutes in Chapel Hill.
North Carolina fans didn't appreciate Lubin's decision last offseason, but he benefitted greatly from that move, averaging career-highs of 13.6 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. Now-LSU head coach Will Wade also started Lubin all 34 games.
Q&A
Why did Ven-Allen Lubin transfer from UNC to NC State?
Ven-Allen Lubin transferred to NC State despite previously stating his desire to remain at UNC, which shocked many fans.
What impact does Matt Able's transfer to UNC have on the team?
Matt Able's commitment to UNC adds depth to the roster, especially after Lubin's departure left a gap in the center position.
How did Ven-Allen Lubin perform against UNC last season?
In the previous season, Lubin scored 12 points and grabbed six rebounds in a decisive 82-58 victory over UNC.
