Matt Able, the highly anticipated UNC basketball signee, turned heads at the NBA Combine on Wednesday, delivering a breakout performance that has fans buzzing—and perhaps a little nervous.

The 6'6" guard, who transferred from NC State and is expected to start for the Tar Heels this fall, lit up the scrimmage with 15 points on 5-of-9 shooting, including a scorching 3-of-5 from beyond the arc. He also added three rebounds and an assist, showcasing the all-around game that made him a key target for head coach Michael Malone's squad.

Able's standout performance couldn't have come at a better time—or a more complicated one. With the NBA Draft looming, his rising stock could tempt him to stay in the draft pool, leaving a sizable hole in UNC's roster. Last season at NC State, the Baltimore native averaged 8.8 points and 3.4 rebounds while playing in all 34 games, proving his durability and potential. Now, he's showing scouts he can compete at the highest level.

Ideally, Able will use this combine experience as a springboard to a strong season at Chapel Hill, solidifying his status as a 2027 NBA Draft prospect. But if he decides to go pro, the Tar Heels have options: Jaydon Young, Isaiah Denis, newly acquired Kevin Thomas, or 4-star wing Maximo Adams could step into starting minutes. Either way, UNC will lean heavily on its freshman class.

The good news? North Carolina isn't done building. The Tar Heels are still pursuing 6'11" Greek forward Alexandros Samodurov and eyeing other portal additions. For now, though, all eyes are on Able—and whether his combine heroics will lead him to the NBA or back to the Dean Dome.