North Carolina's Kyan Evans Commits to Minnesota

Former Tar Heel guard joins Gophers, reuniting with coach Niko Medved

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:50pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the motion and energy of a basketball game, with sharp planes of navy, maroon, and gold colors representing the players and court.A cubist interpretation of the dynamic backcourt pairing of Kyan Evans and Isaac Asuma, who will lead the Minnesota Gophers' offense next season.Iowa City Today

Kyan Evans, a 6'2" guard who previously played for North Carolina, has committed to transfer and join the University of Minnesota basketball team. Evans had an up-and-down season with the Tar Heels, starting the first 17 games but then seeing his playing time and production decline in the second half of the year. He now reunites with his former coach Niko Medved, who recruited him to Colorado State and is now the head coach of the Gophers.

Why it matters

The addition of Evans is a significant boost for the Minnesota program, as he brings valuable experience, perimeter shooting, and familiarity with Medved's system. His commitment solidifies the Gophers' starting backcourt alongside Isaac Asuma and provides depth and scoring punch off the bench.

The details

Evans visited Minnesota earlier this week but left without committing, leading to speculation he could end up at Iowa instead. However, he ultimately chose to join the Gophers, where he will be a key piece in Medved's rotation. As a sophomore at Colorado State, Evans shot 44% from three-point range and averaged 10.5 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. His skill set is seen as a strong fit for Medved's offense and defense.

  • Evans visited Minnesota earlier this week.
  • Evans then traveled to Iowa for another visit.
  • Evans ultimately committed to Minnesota on April 18, 2026.

The players

Kyan Evans

A 6'2" guard who previously played for North Carolina, where he started the first 17 games of the season before seeing his playing time and production decline in the second half of the year. He now transfers to Minnesota to reunite with his former coach Niko Medved.

Niko Medved

The head coach of the University of Minnesota basketball team, who previously recruited Evans to Colorado State when Medved was the coach there.

Hubert Davis

The head coach of the North Carolina basketball team, where Evans played last season before entering the transfer portal.

Isaac Asuma

A guard who will be Evans' teammate at Minnesota, and with whom he is expected to form the Gophers' starting backcourt.

Langston Reynolds

A former Gophers player whose role Evans is expected to fill, as a guard who can handle the ball and play off it.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We know that his skill set marries well with Medved's offense and defense. This was probably the most anticipated transfer of this year's portal season and it came together quickly.”

— gophernation, Author

What’s next

Evans is expected to step into a starting role in Minnesota's backcourt alongside Isaac Asuma, providing the Gophers with a proven perimeter shooter and playmaker to complement their returning core.

The takeaway

The addition of Kyan Evans is a major coup for the Minnesota program, as they land an experienced guard with strong shooting ability and familiarity with head coach Niko Medved's system. This move solidifies the Gophers' backcourt and should provide a significant boost to their offense and NCAA Tournament aspirations next season.