Ven-Allen Lubin Calms UNC Fans Everywhere After Stunning Portal News Drops
Talk about a plot twist no one saw coming. Just when it seemed like the biggest offseason storyline for North Carolina basketball revolved around whether standout Drake Powell would declare for the NBA Draft or return for another season in Chapel Hill, a new headline came crashing through the door and it had Tar Heel Nation in full-blown panic mode.
On Monday, seemingly out of nowhere, news broke that forward Ven-Allen Lubin had entered his name into the NCAA transfer portal. Fans were blindsided. Lubin, the promising 6-foot-8, 225-pound rising star, was widely expected to be a key piece for Hubert Davis’ squad next season. His presence on the court — and growth throughout the 2024-25 season — had sparked excitement among those who envisioned him taking a major leap. So when the alert flashed across social media that he was in the portal, the reaction was swift, emotional, and full of confusion.
Was he leaving? Was there trouble behind the scenes? Had another program swooped in to steal one of Carolina’s core pieces? The questions came fast — but thankfully, so did the clarity.
Just hours after the surprising announcement, Lubin took to social media and delivered a message that brought a collective sigh of relief across the Tar Heel faithful. No, this wasn’t about being unhappy in Chapel Hill. No, this wasn’t about a secret deal or rift with the coaching staff. Instead, Lubin revealed that his decision to enter the portal was a strategic move — a proactive step taken in light of the ongoing NCAA settlement developments, which could impact roster movement and scholarship rules.
In other words: don’t read too much into the headlines. Lubin made it clear that his heart remains in Chapel Hill, and his intent is to suit up in Carolina blue next season.
For those unfamiliar with the situation, the NCAA is currently navigating a pivotal moment involving a massive settlement that could reshape the future of college athletics — from player compensation to roster structures. As a result, some players are entering the portal not to leave, but to give themselves more options or flexibility depending on how those changes shake out. Lubin’s move appears to be just that — a calculated decision to maintain his eligibility options while still planning to stay put.
It’s worth noting that Lubin had a strong showing in his first year with the Tar Heels, averaging 8.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. His physical presence and versatility added much-needed depth to UNC’s frontcourt, and he showed flashes of being a potential breakout star in the 2025 season. After transferring from Vanderbilt (following an initial stop at Notre Dame), Lubin seemed to find his rhythm under Davis and his staff, especially down the stretch when the games meant more and the pressure was high.
Now, instead of worrying about losing one of their most promising returners, UNC fans can breathe easier — and look ahead with optimism. Lubin’s public message brought a stabilizing calm in the middle of a stormy news cycle, reminding everyone that sometimes, things aren’t as dire as they seem in the fast-moving world of college basketball.
So yes, his name is technically in the portal. But no, Ven-Allen Lubin isn’t planning to leave Chapel Hill anytime soon.
If all goes according to plan, expect No. 22 to be right back where he belongs next season — wearing Carolina blue, crashing the boards, and continuing to build something special in one of college basketball’s most storied program
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