As the UNC men’s basketball program continues to see changes this offseason, one of its more veteran players announced he will test the professional waters.

Sophomore forward Armando Bacot shared a message on social media Tuesday evening, revealing his plans to test the NBA Draft process to get feedback on his play. The Richmond, Virginia native led the Tar Heels in scoring and rebounds this past season, with 12.3 points per game and 7.8 rebounds per game.

“I am excited for the opportunity to learn, workout and receive valuable feedback on my game,” wrote Bacot, “that will allow me to make a solid decision on whether to remain in the draft or return to the University of North Carolina for my Junior year.”

New rules adopted by the NCAA and Division I Board of Directors in 2018 changed how college men’s basketball players can test going pro. Players are allowed to be represented by agents certified by the NBPA and the NCAA, but must end the relationship if they return to school. If a player participates in the NBA combine and goes undrafted, they’re allowed to return to school without losing their eligibility, as well as pull out of draft consideration.

Bacot’s announcement came hours after the UNC program formally introduced Hubert Davis as its new head coach in the wake of Roy Williams’ retirement. Davis, who has served as an assistant with the team since 2012, takes over a team that has already seen several frontcourt players enter the transfer portal or go pro this offseason. Talented freshman Day’Ron Sharpe announced he hired an agent to go to the NBA, while freshman Walker Kessler, redshirt junior Sterling Manley and senior Walker Miller all announced plans to enter the transfer portal.

 

Featured image via Todd Melet.

Chapelboro.com does not charge subscription fees. You can support local journalism and our mission to serve the community. Contribute today – every single dollar matters.

 

Related Stories
‹
Holding Court: Regaining a Prominent Place in the NBA Universe
Recently, UNC basketball has fallen from its prominent perch in the NBA universe, with only seven former players on opening day rosters.
Chansky’s Notebook: The Driver
Has Michael Jordan upped his support of his alma mater? With reports that UNC men's basketball has upped its coffers, it's fair to ask.
Chansky’s Notebook: First Foreigner
While Luka Bogavac is poised to be the first foreign-born Tar Heel this century, UNC men's basketball has history with international players.
Chansky's Notebook: VAL Gone
We all know the transfer portal is nuts, but Ven-Allen-Lubin flipping from Carolina men's basketball to N.C. State raises questions.
Ven-Allen Lubin Confirms UNC Departure with Commitment to NC State
Senior forward Ven-Allen Lubin announced his commitment to N.C. State's men's basketball on Sunday after playing for UNC in the prior season
Chansky's Notebook: Potential or Proof
Wouldn’t Drake Powell be better off returning and being UNC's leading scorer as well as an excellent rebounder and assist man?
On Air Today: Taylor Sharp on 'The Break' and Following Armando Bacot's Rookie G-League Season
Taylor Sharp, the director of "The Break, presented by The General" and co-founder of Blue Cup Productions, speaks with 97.9 The Hill's Brighton McConnell about the series on Wednesday, April 16.
Holding Court: In Volatile Transfer Environment, UNC Seeks Length and Continuity
Hubert Davis said height and length were areas that UNC's roster desperately needed improvement. He’s already made huge strides in that area.
UNC's Elliot Cadeau and Jalen Washington Each Enter Names into Transfer Portal
Elliot Cadeau became the first UNC men’s basketball player this offseason to enter his name into the NCAA’s transfer portal on Tuesday afternoon. Several outlets, including Inside Carolina and ESPN, reported the move — signaling the talented sophomore point guard will be seeking opportunities elsewhere from the Tar Heel program. NEWS: North Carolina point guard […]
Chansky's Notebook: Development
As UNC has tried to figure out its roster management, some players improved their career by staying and others by leaving for new pastures.
›