UNC basketball recruit Kevin Thomas joining Tar Heels, Michael Malone

Michael Malone and UNC basketball have picked up a commitment from Kevin Thomas, who became the fourth member of the Tar Heels' 2026 recruiting class.

Thomas, who previously signed with LSU before requesting a release because of the firing of Matt McMahon, committed to UNC on Wednesday, May 13. Auburn, Florida State and Florida were among the other programs pursuing Thomas.

The 6-foot-7 wing from Florida is a four-star recruit and top-100 prospect in the 2026 class. Thomas joins a group that includes forward Maximo Adams, center Sayon Keita and guard Malloy Smith. He won three state championships at Weston Sagemont Prep, including two with UNC guard Matt Able.

Here's more on Thomas and what he could bring to Chapel Hill:

Kevin Thomas stats, highlights, scouting report for UNC basketball

Thomas averaged 15.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 2 steals per game as a senior, securing several player of the year awards in Florida. When he signed with LSU, former Tigers coach Matt McMahon described Thomas as an "athletic 6-7 wing who will bring perimeter scoring and explosiveness" to the court. In the school-issued statement, McMahon highlighted Thomas' "great size and the versatility to defend multiple positions," along with the "ability to shoot the three and attack the basket off the bounce."

Kevin Thomas role with Tar Heels roster under Michael Malone

An athletic wing with two-way potential, Thomas seems to be at his best when he's attacking the rim and using his length as an active defender. The Tar Heels aren't likely to need him to play big minutes right away, but Thomas projects as a player who can develop and has the upside to be a consistent threat on both ends of the court. Terrence Brown, Matt Able and Neoklis Avdalas are expected to get the bulk of the minutes on the perimeter, along with Maximo Adams. Still, UNC needed to add some depth on the wing. Malone accomplished that with the addition of Thomas.

Rodd Baxley covers North Carolina Tar Heels athletics for The Fayetteville Observer as part of the USA TODAY Network. Follow his ACC coverage on X/Twitter or Bluesky: @RoddBaxley. Got questions regarding UNC? Send them to