UNC will have to finish its preseason work without one of its projected starters.
Before tip-off against Charlotte, the Tar Heels announced that starting guard Matt Able is not in uniform and will not play in Tuesday’s exhibition at home.
Matt Able is not in uniform and will not play in tonight’s preseason game vs. Charlotte. pic.twitter.com/3nKyIgWrGi
- Carolina Basketball Stats & Info (@UNCMBBStats) October 27, 2026
That leaves Michael Malone without a key piece as UNC makes its final push toward the regular season. With next week’s opener against Western Carolina looming, the timing makes Able’s absence stand out even more.
Able, the NC State transfer, had an uneven showing in the Tar Heels’ exhibition win over USC, but he bounced back against Indiana with 11 points and 3 of 5 shooting from deep. UNC had hoped these final preseason reps would help the new group continue building chemistry before the games begin to count.
Now, with Able sidelined, the spotlight shifts to the backcourt behind him. Isaiah Denis, Jaydon Young, and Angelo Brizzi could all see a larger role against the 49ers.
That may not be a bad thing in an exhibition setting. The starting five, assuming everyone is healthy, appears largely settled, but the rotation is still taking shape. This game gives other players a chance to make their case and earn more trust from the staff.
For now, UNC is left hoping Able’s absence is only precautionary. Less than a week before the regular season starts, though, any missed game naturally carries some concern.
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