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Michael Malone and North Carolina reportedly made a major splash on the recruiting trail on Tuesday.
According to Inside Carolina’s Sherrel McMillan, the Tar Heels signed a five-star international recruit with a 7-foot-7 wingspan (per 247Sports’ Adam Finkelstein).
“Sayon Keita, considered one of the world’s top high school post prospects, has committed to North Carolina,” McMillan stated.
“The 7-footer is part of the high school class of 2027 but is expected to reclassify into the 2026 class to play this coming season, bringing elite length, rim-running, and shot-blocking for Michael Malone’s Tar Heels. Jonathan Givony of Draft Express was first to report the news.”
“The 18-year-old is a native of Bamako, Mali, and moved to Spain to begin his basketball career four years ago, ultimately joining the FC Barcelona program. He made his professional debut last season in Spain’s top pro league – Liga ACB – and has played spot reserve minutes this season at that level for FC Barcelona’s first team.”
Keita’s commitment to the Tar Heels couldn’t have come at a better time, as the ACC program was recently notified that standout big man Henri Veesar would be entering the 2026 NBA Draft.
Like Veesar, Keita’s professional experience should help him make a noticeable impact at the collegiate level sooner than later. If things go as planned, Keita will guide the Tar Heels to the Final Four for the first time since 2022 before heading to the NBA.
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