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Duke-Friendly Franchise Waives Former UNC Basketball One-And-Done

UNC basketball product Nassir Little is no longer part of Phoenix's plans, but the Suns still owe him millions.

Matt Giles

Former UNC basketball forward Nassir Little
Former UNC basketball forward Nassir Little / Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports
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Chances are the Phoenix Suns won't be the favorite NBA team of many UNC basketball fans next season. On Wednesday, after stacking up on Duke basketball talents in free agency this summer — Mason Plumlee and Tyus Jones joined Grayson Allen — the franchise waived its only NBA Tar Heel under contract in 2018-19 one-and-done Nassir Little.

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According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, the Suns released the 24-year-old Little, along with EJ Liddell, in order to "open up a roster spot and create flexibility for signings and trades during the season."

Little's guaranteed contract includes $22 million over the next three years.

Last season, Little's first campaign with the Suns and fifth in the league since getting drafted No. 25 overall in 2019, the 6-foot-5 forward played 45 games, averaging a career-low 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds in 10.2 minutes per outing.

He's now a free agent.

As things stand, not counting former outbound Tar Heel transfer center Walker Kessler, only six UNC basketball players appear on an NBA roster for next season: Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony, San Antonio Spurs forward Harrison Barnes, Spurs forward Harrison Ingram, Brooklyn Nets forward Cam Johnson, Nets center Day'Ron Sharpe, and Chicago Bulls guard Coby White.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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