In a strategic move to strengthen its frontcourt and retool for a bounce-back season, the North Carolina Tar Heels have secured a promising and experienced addition through the transfer portal. According to a Friday afternoon report from ESPN’s Jonathan Givony, the Tar Heels have officially landed a 6-foot-10 forward transferring from Arizona.
At just 21 years old, he brings with him not only two years of Pac-12 experience but also a unique international pedigree. A native of Tallinn, Estonia, he came to Arizona after developing in the elite Real Madrid basketball academy—an uncommon path for most NCAA players. The Estonian forward has also suited up for his national team, giving him a depth of competitive experience rarely seen in college transfers.
This past season, he averaged 9.4 points and five rebounds per game, contributing to a deep Arizona squad that made yet another strong NCAA tournament run. The Wildcats have now advanced to multiple tournament wins in three of the past four seasons, and Veesaar was a steady rotational piece in their success.
His decision to head to Chapel Hill is a timely one for North Carolina, who are coming off a disheartening 2025 campaign. After barely squeaking into the NCAA tournament, the Tar Heels suffered a shocking first-round exit at the hands of Ole Miss, a sharp contrast to their 2024 performance when they earned a No. 1 seed and reached the Sweet 16.
For head coach Hubert Davis, the acquisition of Henri Veesaar is a step toward stabilizing a frontcourt that lacked size, depth, and consistency throughout the past season.
With veteran leadership, European fundamentals, and high-level exposure under his belt, Veesaar could prove to be an anchor in the paint and a reliable two-way contributor.
The move also reflects UNC’s clear desire to blend experience with athletic upside heading into a crucial year for the program. After a turbulent 2025, expectations will be high, and adding a player like Veesaar signals that North Carolina is serious about reclaiming its place among the nation’s elite.
With the transfer portal still buzzing and roster spots open, Veesaar may not be the last big addition. But for now, Tar Heels fans can breathe a bit easier—help has arrived.
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