Ven-Allen Lubin said when he entered the transfer portal that he intended to return to UNC, but is instead transferring to one of the Tar Heels’ rivals.

Here’s a detailed 500‑word “Breaking” feature on Ven‑Allen Lubin’s transfer saga — including his public statement, reversal, and commitment to in‑state rival NC State:

🔥 Breaking: Ven‑Allen Lubin U‑Turns on UNC Return, Transfers to NC State

Chapel Hill — Just weeks after declaring his full intent to return to North Carolina, transfer forward Ven‑Allen Lubin has shocked Tar Heels fans by committing to rival NC State under new coach Will Wade.

🗣 The Initial Statement: Return Was the Plan

On April 21, 2025, Lubin entered the NCAA transfer portal — but emphatically stated his plan was to stay at UNC. In a public post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:

“Before anybody jumps to the wrong conclusion, I am entering the transfer portal with full intent on returning to UNC. My action relates to the complexities surrounding the possible approval of the pending NCAA settlement.” (northcarolina.rivals.com, tarheeltribune.com)

That post came amid uncertainty surrounding his role under new frontcourt additions and potential NCAA settlement complications. Tar Heel Illustrated and KeepingItHeel confirmed the statement, noting his intention to stay for another season. (keepingitheel.com)

⚠️ A Change of Heart: Enters Portal, Commits Elsewhere

On June 1, less than six weeks after his pledge, Lubin officially committed to NC State, joining a flurry of transfers to coach Will Wade’s newly revamped Wolfpack roster. This marks his fourth collegiate move in as many years — following Notre Dame, Vanderbilt, and UNC. (backingthepack.com)

📊 Season Review: What He Brings

In his season with UNC, the 6‑foot‑8 senior started 20 of 37 games, averaging 8.7 points and 5.5 rebounds, shooting a stellar 68.4% inside the arc. Late in the season, he began strong, scoring double digits in 11 consecutive games, including a memorable double-double (20 pts, 10 reb) in the ACC Tournament semifinals vs Duke. (reuters.com)

Lubin also earned UNC’s Most Improved Player award and led the team in rebounding. His versatility as a post-up-forward was praised by coaches. (chapelboro.com)

🆚 Rivalry Heat: Tar Heels Fans React

UNC fans responded sharply. Former Tar Heel Theo Pinson blasted Lubin’s move as “Corny” and “Ain’t no damn way” on X. (sportskeeda.com) Other fans labeled him a “traitor”, accusing him of chasing NIL money. (collegefootballnetwork.com)

🎯 What This Means

• For NC State & Will Wade: Lubin adds seasoned inside presence to a roster built entirely from transfers and freshmen, hinting at an aggressive strategy to jump UNC in the ACC hierarchy. Analysts say this move could mark a turning point in the Triangle rivalry. (dukebasketballreport.com)
• For UNC & Hubert Davis: Lubin’s departure deepens pressure on Davis, who has already endured several key player exits and fan discontent. Critics fear UNC risks dropping to third place behind State and Duke. (dukebasketballreport.com)
• For Lubin Himself: He joins a Wolfpack setup where he is positioned for immediate impact—unlike at UNC, where his minutes were uncertain due to incoming frontcourt pairings. NC State gives him a clear starting role. (chapelboro.com)

🔎 Final Thought

Lubin’s transfer is more than a routine roster move—it embodies shifting dynamics in college basketball’s transfer portal era. One moment, he pledged loyalty to UNC; the next, he opted for their rival. That flip echoes larger themes of player empowerment, NIL complexities, and evolving coaching strategies.

As NC State looks to leverage this coup under Wade’s leadership, UNC must brace for both competitive fallout and fan unrest. The Triangle rivalry just hit a new crescendo—and for Ven‑Allen Lubin, the move may define his legacy.