The next phase in North Carolina’s pursuit of Ven-Allen Lubin is happening very soon. Inside Carolina has confirmed from sources that the Vanderbilt forward has booked an official visit, which is set to begin on Tuesday in Chapel Hill.
The 6-8, 230-pound sophomore Lubin caught the attention of UNC coaches last week and had many talks with them. UNC’s first aim for the remaining summer is to strengthen the frontcourt.
Lubin decided to leave Vanderbilt on May 1, which was the transfer portal’s last available day. That occurred six weeks after legendary Tar Heel Jerry Stackhouse, the head coach of the Commodores, was sacked after a 9–23 campaign.
Lubin started all 26 of the games he played in last season, averaging 12.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks. His best games were reserved for the end. He finished the regular season with a surprise victory over Florida with 25 points and 11 rebounds, and the SEC Tournament saw him fall to Arkansas in overtime with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and three steals.
After the victory over Florida, Lubin stated, “Just try to be aggressive, crash the boards as hard as we can, try to track the ball and pursue the ball.” We had to match their physicality and maintain our aggression since they are pretty big players, so doing so was crucial.
“I just keep having the confidence that, when I have the chance to shoot, I’ll just let it fly. I’m constantly improving and working on (my perimeter shot). I appreciate you taking the time and making the effort to help my team and get it down.”
Lubin hit multiple three-pointers three times this season, including a 2-for-5 performance in the victory against Florida and a 2-for-3 performance at Tennessee one month before. Lubin’s season three-point percentage was 33.3 percent.
Stackhouse stated during the season, “We want to be able to take advantage of when they sag off him.” Because he shoots the ball well, we run some plays for him, but we don’t want to undermine his other strengths either. Throwing it down to him, he’s an excellent post player who can also pass when defenses apply a double team. He has a great touch around the basket and a penchant for finishing.”
Lubin has already appeared on the portal twice. He began his collegiate career at Notre Dame, where he was a member of the same team as future Tar Heel Cormac Ryan. In 2022–2023 he recorded 6.2 points and 4.4 rebounds with seven starts.
According to the 247Sports Composite, Lubin is the No. 74 overall prospect and the nation’s No. 12 power forward prospect for the 2022 class. He went to the same school as former Tar Heel Nas Little, Orlando (Fla.) Christian Prep.
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