The UNC basketball program made another splash in the transfer portal this week as it landed Louisville forward transfer [autotag]Jae’Lyn Withers[/autotag].
Withers is a 6-foot-8 forward who averaged 8.9 points and 5.3 rebounds per game last season. He also shot 41.7 percent from three on 3.0 attempts per game.
According to 247Sports college basketball writer Isaac Trotter, the Tar Heels’ addition of Withers was ‘sneaky big’. Why? The ability to space the floor and his efficiency with the lack of talent around him in recent years.
“Withers rated in the 90th percentile in catch-and-shoot jumpers last season for a Cardinals squad that struggled mightily. R.J. Davis will instantly become the most-talented lead guard Withers has ever played with, and the attention big man Armando Bacot demands should open plenty of shooting windows for Withers to shine.”
Withers would have ranked third on the UNC roster this past season in made 3s (40) and fourth in attempts (96).
His true effective field goal percentage (52.2) would have been second, outside of Armando Bacot.
There is no doubt his versatility and ability to stretch the floor will help North Carolina. With an increased level of talent on the floor around him, it should help him even more.
“Withers also offers Hubert Davis strong position versatility with the size to guard 4s and the athleticism to play the 3. If he can stay engaged –– which was a problem during Louisville’s four-win campaign –– Withers will be the shot-making role player UNC so desperately was missing.”
[mm-video type=playlist id=01fvdcv0v20j1dne5g player_id=01eqbvp13nn1gy6hd4 image=]
Follow us @TarHeelsWire on Twitter and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of North Carolina Tar Heels news, notes and opinions.
Follow all of your favorite Carolina teams at Tar Heels Wire and Panthers Wire!