Jonathan Powell plans to enter the portal. The latest on UNC’s roster churn

Jonathan Powell, a 6-foot-6 sophomore guard for North Carolina, is planning to enter the NCAA transfer portal, he announced on social media Monday night.

“I’m thankful for how the year went but with that being said I will be entering the transfer portal with the option to return,” Powell wrote in an X post Monday evening.

Powell joined UNC last offseason after a productive freshman campaign at West Virginia, where he started the final 23 games for the Mountaineers during the 2024-25 season.

Last season at North Carolina, Powell averaged 4.8 points in 16.3 minutes per game, establishing himself as a reliable 3-point shooter.

He made at least one 3-pointer in 24 games and multiple threes in 10 contests. UNC was 10-0 when he hit multiple 3-pointers.

Powell scored in double figures three times for North Carolina, including a season-high 17 points against USC Upstate, 12 at home versus Syracuse, and an ACC-best 15 points versus Virginia Tech —a game in which he also made a season-high four 3-pointers.

Powell’s versatility as a wing who can score from deep, handle the ball efficiently, and contribute defensively makes him an intriguing prospect for programs seeking a proven shooter with experience.

He is the fourth Tar Heel to announce their intent to enter the portal, following fellow guards Derek Dixon, Jaydon Young and Isaiah Denis.

Powell’s announcement comes hours after news broke Monday that North Carolina is set to hire Michael Malone as its next basketball coach.

“I’m grateful that I was able to put on that Carolina blue and represent the University of North Carolina,” Powell wrote. “I want to thank my teammates, coaches, staff, professors, and fans for the nonstop support throughout my time in Chapel Hill.”

This story was originally published April 6, 2026 at 6:23 PM with the headline "Jonathan Powell plans to enter the portal. The latest on UNC’s roster churn."