Cade Tyson Attracts Widespread Interest After Entering Transfer Portal, Despite Struggles at UNC
Cade Tyson’s decision to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal has sparked a flurry of interest from programs around the country, even though his lone season at North Carolina didn’t go as he or the Tar Heels had hoped. While Tyson was once seen as a rising star among mid-major transfers, his transition to a high-profile program proved more difficult than expected. Yet, despite his statistical dip and limited role at UNC, several notable programs are lining up to recruit him, believing in his potential and previous production.
Just one year ago, Tyson was a standout at Belmont University, earning a reputation as one of the most efficient perimeter shooters in college basketball. His sophomore season with the Bruins was especially impressive; he knocked down 46.5% of his three-point attempts and was regarded as a major offensive weapon. This production caught the attention of high-major programs, leading him to transfer to North Carolina ahead of the 2024-2025 season.
Expectations were understandably high when Tyson arrived in Chapel Hill. However, the fit never materialized. He struggled to find consistent playing time and wasn’t able to replicate the shooting success that defined his time at Belmont. Used mostly in a reserve role, Tyson averaged just 2.6 points and 1.1 rebounds over 31 games, with only about eight minutes of court time per game. His three-point percentage dipped below 30%, a stark contrast to his previous numbers, and his free-throw shooting also saw a significant drop.
While those numbers may have caused some to question his ability to transition to high-major competition, the broader basketball community hasn’t been deterred. According to Jamie Shaw of On3, over 10 programs have already reached out to express their interest in Tyson. This group includes prominent names such as Kentucky, Iowa, Virginia Tech, Clemson, Oklahoma, and Ohio State.
Among those teams, Clemson may have a slight advantage in the recruitment process. Tyson’s older brother, Hunter, had a successful career with the Tigers and that family connection could play a role in Tyson’s decision-making. Familiarity with the coaching staff and program culture, coupled with a potential opportunity for increased playing time, may make Clemson an appealing destination.
The widespread interest in Tyson is a testament to the belief that his talent remains intact, even if his brief stint at UNC didn’t showcase it. Coaches and scouts alike recognize that sometimes a player’s struggles at one program are due to fit, role, or confidence, rather than a true reflection of their ability. Given Tyson’s proven shooting skill and size at the forward position, many believe he can thrive in a different system.
It’s not uncommon for players to face challenges when stepping up to a more competitive level, especially when minutes are hard to come by and rhythm is hard to establish. Tyson’s situation at North Carolina is a classic case of a player not quite fitting into the team’s rotation or system. That doesn’t mean his potential has diminished. On the contrary, many programs see him as a buy-low candidate with the tools to make a major impact if put in the right situation.
The recruitment process will likely continue to heat up in the coming weeks, especially as teams evaluate their rosters and look for ways to add proven shooting. For teams in need of perimeter scoring and floor spacing, Tyson remains an intriguing option. His ability to shoot the ball, especially from deep, is a commodity that every team values.
Despite a tough season at North Carolina, Tyson’s character and work ethic remain strong points in his favor. Those close to the program have noted that he stayed committed, worked hard in practice, and maintained a positive attitude, even as his role diminished. That professionalism and maturity are not going unnoticed by potential suitors.
Another factor working in Tyson’s favor is his experience. Having played both at a mid-major level and in the ACC, he brings a unique blend of perspectives. He knows what it’s like to be a go-to guy and also understands the grind of competing for minutes at a powerhouse program. That versatility could be valuable for a coaching staff looking for a seasoned contributor who’s ready to step in and play a role, whether as a starter or a key bench piece.
Of course, Tar Heel fans will be keeping a close eye on where Tyson lands. If he remains in the ACC, there’s always the possibility that he could return to Chapel Hill as an opponent. And as basketball fate often has it, players sometimes have their best performances against their former teams. Carolina supporters will undoubtedly hope that, if that situation arises, Tyson doesn’t pick that game to rediscover his elite shooting form.
At the end of the day, Tyson’s story is far from over. His journey is a reminder of how unpredictable and fluid the college basketball landscape has become in the transfer portal era. A player can have a down year, switch teams, and still become a vital contributor in a different environment. Tyson is poised to do just that — find a new home, regain his confidence, and show once again why he was considered one of the nation’s top shooters not long ago.
As he evaluates his next move, the programs pursuing him believe in his upside. And if he lands in the right system with the right opportunity, there’s a good chance Cade Tyson’s best basketball is still ahead of him.
