Big news out of Chapel Hill: Jarin Stevenson is officially back in Carolina blue for the 2026-27 season. The 6-foot-10 forward, who made the move to North Carolina after two seasons at Alabama, has re-signed with the Tar Heels under new head coach Michael Malone.

Stevenson's return was announced by the university on Friday afternoon, confirming his decision to stay put rather than test the transfer portal. For Coach Malone, locking in a player of Stevenson's caliber was a top priority—and it paid off. The Chapel Hill native was a fixture in the Tar Heels' rotation last season, appearing in all 33 games and starting 25 of them. He averaged 8.1 points and 4.4 rebounds per game, showing the kind of versatility that makes him a valuable asset in the frontcourt.

With his length and experience, Stevenson brings stability to a UNC squad looking to make noise in the ACC. For fans, seeing a hometown talent commit to the program's future under a new coaching regime is exactly the kind of momentum builder the Tar Heels needed. Whether you're stocking up on gear for game day or just following the roster moves, this re-signing is a win for Chapel Hill.