Jarin Stevenson has announced his return to UNC for his senior season, providing a key asset for coach Michael Malone. He joins Jaydon Young as the only returning players from last year's team.
Mar 7, 2026; Durham, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Jarin Stevenson (15) dunks during the first half against the Duke Blue Devils at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images | Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images
Mar 7, 2026; Durham, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Jarin Stevenson (15) dunks during the first half against the Duke Blue Devils at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images | Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images
Another piece of last yearâs team has decided to stick around. Jarin Stevenson, a Chapel Hill native, announced that he would be returning to Carolina for his senior season on Monday. Stevenson was a versatile piece of last yearâs team, splitting time between the starting lineup and being the first guy off the bench. His return gives Michael Malone a seasoned college player to slot into his plans for his first Tar Heel team.
Stevenson joins Jaydon Young as the only pieces of last yearâs team to commit to returning to play for Malone. Young briefly entered the transfer portal before announcing his return. Stevensonâs status was up in the air with some noting that he wasnât seen at Maloneâs introductory press conference, so the news that he is returning is very welcome.
Malone has already started to put the pieces of his team together with these pieces and the commitment of Neoklis Avdalas from Virginia Tech. Heâs still waiting on decisions from Henri Veesaar and Derek Dixon, as well as a big portal target in Juke Harris. Incoming freshman Maximo Adams reaffirmed his commitment to UNC over the weekend, but weâre still waiting news about what Dylan Mingo plans to do.
Q&A
Why did Jarin Stevenson decide to return to UNC for his senior season?
Jarin Stevenson decided to return to UNC for his senior season to continue his development and contribute to the team's success under new coach Michael Malone.
Who else is returning to UNC basketball alongside Jarin Stevenson?
Alongside Jarin Stevenson, Jaydon Young is also returning to UNC basketball after briefly entering the transfer portal.
What impact will Jarin Stevenson's return have on UNC's basketball team?
Jarin Stevenson's return will provide UNC with a seasoned player who can contribute both as a starter and off the bench, aiding coach Michael Malone in building a competitive team.
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