UNC Guard Jaydon Young Returns After Transfer Portal Stint

Young's decision to stay with the Tar Heels provides stability for new head coach Michael Malone.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:09pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the motion and energy of a college basketball game, with sharp, overlapping shapes and planes representing the transition and changes within the UNC program.A cubist interpretation of the shifting dynamics within the UNC basketball program as new leadership takes the helm.Tar Heel Today

North Carolina guard Jaydon Young is returning to the Tar Heels for the 2026-27 season after a brief stint in the transfer portal. This development comes as UNC undergoes a coaching change, with former assistant Michael Malone taking over as the new head coach following Hubert Davis' departure. Young's experience and familiarity with the program will be valuable assets as the team navigates this transition.

Why it matters

Young's return, along with the expected return of guard Luka Bogavac, provides much-needed stability in the Tar Heels' backcourt. With the departure of experienced players, the development of these guards will be crucial for UNC's success under Malone's leadership. The coaching changes also suggest a shift in strategy and a desire to bring in fresh ideas, which could significantly impact the team's performance and culture.

The details

After transferring from Virginia Tech, Young made an impact during his brief time with UNC, averaging 7.2 minutes and 1.8 points per game as a junior. His decision to stay with the Tar Heels is a significant retention for new head coach Michael Malone, who is bringing in former Arkansas assistant Chuck Martin as associate head coach. This move suggests a shift in strategy and a desire to bring in fresh ideas to reshape the team's identity.

  • Jaydon Young transferred to UNC from Virginia Tech prior to the 2025-26 season.
  • Young is returning to UNC for the 2026-27 season after briefly entering the transfer portal.
  • Hubert Davis departed as UNC's head coach following the 2025-26 season.
  • Michael Malone was appointed as the new UNC head coach for the 2026-27 season.
  • Chuck Martin was hired as UNC's associate head coach for the 2026-27 season.

The players

Jaydon Young

A guard who transferred from Virginia Tech to UNC prior to the 2025-26 season and is now returning to the Tar Heels for the 2026-27 season.

Luka Bogavac

A guard who is expected to return to UNC for the 2026-27 season, providing additional backcourt stability alongside Jaydon Young.

Michael Malone

The new head coach of the UNC basketball team, taking over after the departure of Hubert Davis.

Chuck Martin

The new associate head coach of the UNC basketball team, joining from Arkansas.

Hubert Davis

The former head coach of the UNC basketball team, who departed following the 2025-26 season.

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What they’re saying

“Jaydon's decision to stay with the Tar Heels is a significant retention for our program. His experience and familiarity with the team will be invaluable as we navigate this transition.”

— Michael Malone, Head Coach, UNC Basketball

“I'm excited to be a part of the new era of UNC basketball. With the coaching changes and the return of experienced players like Jaydon, I believe we have the potential to build something special.”

— Luka Bogavac, Guard, UNC Basketball

What’s next

The Tar Heels will look to build on the stability provided by Young's return and the coaching changes as they prepare for the 2026-27 season. The development of the backcourt, led by Young and Bogavac, will be a key focus for the new coaching staff.

The takeaway

Jaydon Young's return to UNC, coupled with the coaching changes, signals a new chapter for the Tar Heels. The team's ability to adapt to the fresh leadership and develop its young talent will be crucial in determining their success in the upcoming season and beyond.