Michael Malone Hits the Ground Running in First Week as UNC Head Coach

Inside Carolina basketball analyst Rob Harrington breaks down Malone's early moves, staff hires, and recruiting priorities.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 2:19am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented college basketball scene, with sharp planes of navy blue, powder blue, and white overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract composition.Malone's first week at the helm of the Tar Heels signals a new era of strategic leadership and roster reshaping for the storied basketball program.Chapel Hill Today

Just eight days after being named the new head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels, Michael Malone has already made significant strides in building his staff, retaining key players, and addressing the team's needs in the transfer portal. Inside Carolina's Rob Harrington joins the show to discuss Malone's first week on the job, including his assistant coaching hires, the decision to keep forward Jarin Stevenson, and the addition of transfer Neoklis Advalas.

Why it matters

As one of college basketball's premier programs, North Carolina's coaching transition is closely watched by fans and media alike. Malone's early actions will set the tone for his tenure and indicate how he plans to maintain the Tar Heels' status as an elite national contender.

The details

Harrington praised Malone's quick work in assembling his coaching staff, highlighting the hires of Chuck Martin and Kim English as strong additions who will help with recruiting and player development. The analyst also noted the importance of retaining Stevenson, a key returning piece, and the potential impact of Advalas, a skilled transfer from overseas. However, Harrington acknowledged some roster turnover, including the departures of Dylan Mingo and Derek Dixon.

  • Malone was announced as the new UNC head coach just 8 days ago.
  • Malone has already made several key staff hires and roster moves in his first week on the job.

The players

Michael Malone

The newly hired head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels, tasked with maintaining the program's status as an elite national contender.

Rob Harrington

An Inside Carolina basketball analyst who provides expert commentary and analysis on the Tar Heels.

Chuck Martin

One of Malone's assistant coaching hires, known for his recruiting prowess and player development skills.

Kim English

Another of Malone's assistant coaching hires, bringing valuable experience and a strong reputation for coaching and recruiting.

Jarin Stevenson

A key returning player for the Tar Heels, whose decision to stay with the program was seen as an important move by Harrington.

Neoklis Advalas

A transfer addition from overseas who Harrington believes can make an impact for the Tar Heels.

Dylan Mingo

A player who parted ways with the program during Malone's first week as head coach.

Derek Dixon

Another player who exited the program during Malone's transition.

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What they’re saying

“Building a staff has been front and center for Malone and Harrington shares his views on the hiring of Chuck Martin and Kim English, as well as the ideal fit for one more assistant coach spot.”

— Rob Harrington, Inside Carolina Basketball Analyst

“Harrington and Ashley also discuss the retention of Jarin Stevenson, the addition of Neoklis Advalas from the transfer portal and the needs for Malone to secure going forward.”

— Rob Harrington, Inside Carolina Basketball Analyst

What’s next

Malone will continue to evaluate the roster and finalize his coaching staff in the coming weeks as he prepares for his first season leading the Tar Heels.

The takeaway

Malone has hit the ground running in his first week as UNC's head coach, quickly assembling a strong coaching staff and addressing key roster needs. His early actions suggest a proactive approach to maintaining the program's elite status and positioning the Tar Heels for success in the years ahead.