Jarin Stevenson Staying at UNC to Play for Michael Malone

The versatile forward will return to the Tar Heels for his senior season.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:39pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the North Carolina Tar Heels and Alabama Crimson Tide uniforms and the dynamic movements of the players on the court.Stevenson's versatility and experience will be crucial for the Tar Heels as they adapt to a new coaching staff.Chapel Hill Today

Jarin Stevenson, a forward for the North Carolina Tar Heels, has announced that he will remain with the team for his senior season and play under new head coach Michael Malone. Stevenson, a Pittsboro native, appeared in all 33 games last season, making 25 starts and averaging 8.1 points and 4.4 rebounds per game.

Why it matters

Stevenson's decision to stay at UNC is a significant boost for the Tar Heels, as he has proven to be a valuable and versatile player. His ability to play both on the wing and in the frontcourt will be crucial for the team as they transition to a new coaching staff under Michael Malone.

The details

Stevenson, who spent his first two college seasons at Alabama, arrived in Chapel Hill after drawing interest from other Power 5 schools. Malone and Stevenson met as part of the one-on-one player meetings that took place last week, and Malone reportedly prioritized retaining the 6-foot-10 forward. Stevenson's versatility, including his ability to put the ball on the floor, rebound, and defend multiple positions, made him a valuable piece for the Tar Heels last season.

  • Stevenson appeared in all 33 games for the Tar Heels last season.
  • Stevenson averaged 8.1 points and 4.4 rebounds per game in the 2022-23 season, both career bests.
  • Stevenson announced his decision to stay at UNC via ESPN on Monday, April 13, 2026.

The players

Jarin Stevenson

A 6-foot-10 forward who played his first two college seasons at Alabama before transferring to North Carolina, where he has been a valuable and versatile player for the Tar Heels.

Michael Malone

The new head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels men's basketball team, who prioritized retaining Stevenson as part of his transition to the program.

Hubert Davis

The former head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels, who had a long-standing connection with Stevenson dating back to his high school days at Pittsboro Seaforth High School.

Caleb Wilson

A freshman phenom for the Tar Heels who was sidelined, leading to Stevenson taking on a more frontcourt-heavy role.

Seth Trimble

A teammate of Stevenson's who praised the forward's versatility after a win over Ohio State.

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What they’re saying

“He's very versatile. He's able to put the ball in the floor, he's able to rebound, he's able to defend one through five. He's just a very versatile wing slash forward. It's great for us.”

— Seth Trimble, Teammate

“I've known Jarin and his family for a very long time, and I'm so thankful that Jarin decided to come back here and to come back home. He's a great kid. He's someone else that you know had a burning desire to be a part of this program and a part of this team.”

— Hubert Davis, Former Head Coach

What’s next

Stevenson will look to build on his strong junior season and continue to be a key contributor for the Tar Heels under new head coach Michael Malone.

The takeaway

Stevenson's decision to stay at UNC is a significant win for the program, as his versatility and experience will be crucial in helping the team navigate the transition to a new coaching staff. His ability to play multiple positions and impact the game in a variety of ways makes him a valuable asset for the Tar Heels.