A new era is gaining momentum in Chapel Hill, and Michael Malone is making a powerful early statement with his staff.
In a major move for the North Carolina Tar Heels men’s basketball, a highly respected veteran assistant coach is set to join the program as associate head coach—the lead assistant role—bringing with him a reputation for elite recruiting and offensive development.
Chuck Martin is that key addition, expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping North Carolina’s offensive identity and overall team structure.
Martin, who most recently worked under John Calipari at Arkansas Razorbacks men’s basketball, has built a strong résumé across multiple programs. He was instrumental in assembling top recruiting classes, including a No. 2-ranked class at Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball, and multiple top-10 classes at Arkansas.
More importantly, this hire is rooted in trust. Martin shares a long-standing relationship with Malone dating back to their early coaching days, giving the new head coach a reliable and experienced voice as he reshapes the Tar Heels.
With offensive improvement a major priority, Martin is expected to help modernize UNC’s system, bringing structure, efficiency, and a recruiting edge that could quickly elevate the program.
With this move, North Carolina is positioning itself not just for ACC contention—but for a serious run in March.
