Could Coleman Hawkins Be the Missing Piece for UNC Basketball?

As the NBA Draft process unfolds, one name has been making waves in the college basketball world: Coleman Hawkins. The 6-foot-10 forward from Illinois has been focused on starting his professional career, but a recent development has thrown a spanner in the works. Hawkins has entered the transfer portal, sparking speculation about his potential destinations. And, as it turns out, the UNC basketball program might just be a strong contender for his services.

The NBA Draft process is underway, but Coleman Hawkins’ future remains uncertain.

According to college basketball analyst Matt Norlander of CBS Sports, Hawkins is considering a return to college for a fifth and final season. Norlander lists Arkansas, North Carolina, Louisville, and Kansas State as potential suitors if Hawkins decides to forgo the NBA Draft. What’s more, Norlander suggests that a big NIL deal would follow Hawkins to whichever program he chooses.

Coleman Hawkins would be a tremendous addition to the UNC basketball program.

If Hawkins does elect to return to college, the UNC basketball program would be a natural fit. He would instantly slide into the “stretch four” position, bringing a much-needed boost to the Tar Heels’ squad. Hawkins’ impressive stats from his senior season – 12.9 points per game, 45.1% from the floor, and 36.9% from three-point range – make him an attractive prospect.

The UNC basketball program is in need of a player like Coleman Hawkins.

As I watched Illinois play over the last few seasons, I was struck by Hawkins’ high-motor and versatility on the court. He’s exactly the kind of player Hubert Davis and the Tar Heels have been looking for in the transfer portal. Hawkins would be a valuable addition to help fill the void left by Harrison Ingram’s departure.

Harrison Ingram’s departure has left a gap in the UNC basketball program.

The only downside to Hawkins’ recruitment is that it may take a while to unfold, as he navigates the NBA Draft process. This could hurt the UNC basketball program in terms of identifying other transfer portal options, as it’s not a guarantee he would choose to come to Chapel Hill. However, Hawkins could be worth the wait, as he could easily be the missing piece to what Hubert Davis and his staff have already assembled.

Hubert Davis and his staff are waiting with bated breath for Coleman Hawkins’ decision.

As the college basketball world waits with bated breath for Hawkins’ decision, one thing is clear: Coleman Hawkins would be a tremendous addition to the UNC basketball program. Let’s hope he chooses to don the Tar Heels’ jersey and bring his talents to Chapel Hill.

The UNC basketball program is waiting for Coleman Hawkins’ decision.