UNC Basketball One-And-Done Secures Another NBA Contract

UNC basketball product Nassir Little will head to Miami to continue his pro career.

Matt Giles | Sep 24, 2024

UNC basketball forward Nassir Little / Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

In this story:

North Carolina Tar Heels

When the Phoenix Suns waived Nassir Little in late August, he became one of the top free agents on the market. So, it came as no surprise on Monday night when NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that the 2018-19 UNC basketball forward and former No. 25 overall draft pick has agreed to a one-year deal with the Miami Heat for his sixth season in the league.

ALSO READ: Clips From First Official 2024-25 UNC Practice

Little, now 24 years old and entering what should his prime years as an athlete, spent his first four NBA seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers, the franchise that drafted him. Last season marked the Florida native's first in Phoenix.

Between his stints with the Blazers and Suns, Nassir Little has seen action in 237 regular season games, averaging 5.5 points and 2.9 rebounds while shooting 45.2 percent from the field, 33.0 percent beyond the arc, and 73.5 percent at the line.

With just under a month before the regular season begins, there are now seven UNC basketball alums appearing on 2024-25 NBA rosters (not including players on Exhibit 10 deals for training camp):

Miami Heat forward Nassir Little

Brooklyn Nets forward Cam Johnson

Brooklyn Nets center Day'Ron Sharpe

Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony

Chicago Bulls guard Coby White

San Antonio Spurs forward Harrison Barnes

San Antonio Spurs forward Harrison Ingram

ALSO READ: UNC Legend Getting Jersey Retired Twice in NBA

Stay tuned to North Carolina Tar Heels On SI for more UNC basketball news.

Published Sep 24, 2024

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.