Overview
- Duke, which received Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje's pledge Thursday, added a 7-foot FC Barcelona center to its 2026 class.
- UNC previously landed Barcelona big man Sayon Keita on Tuesday, a five-star prospect projected as a 2027 NBA lottery pick.
- New UNC coach Michael Malone traveled to Spain to evaluate both prospects, drawing on his international scouting experience.
- North Carolina's pursuit intensified after starter Henri Veesaar declared for the 2026 NBA Draft, creating a clear need at center.
- Because he is 16, Boumtje Boumtje must complete two college seasons before he can enter the 2028 NBA Draft.