The University of North Carolina basketball program continues to produce successful NBA players, with former Tar Heels making their mark in the league. The latest addition to this list is Leaky Black, who is set to make his first career start for the Charlotte Hornets.

Despite going undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft, Black signed with the Charlotte Hornets and has gradually seen an increase in playing time off the bench. His persistence and hard work have paid off, as he is now poised to make his debut as a starter against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Black’s opportunity to start comes as a result of an injury to Lamelo Ball, highlighting the impact he is poised to make in the absence of key players. His journey to the NBA saw him begin with the Hornets G-League affiliate Greensboro Swarm before making his debut in November 2023.

During February, Black has been averaging around 18 minutes per game, a significant increase from his earlier appearances in the season. Notably, he achieved a career-high of 11 points in a recent game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, showcasing his growing influence on the court.

One of the standout moments of Black’s career so far came in a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he made a crucial contribution to the Hornets’ victory. Despite only playing five minutes, his efficient shooting and crucial free throws were instrumental in securing the win, demonstrating his potential to make an impact in key game situations.

As the University of North Carolina continues to celebrate the success of its former players in the NBA, Leaky Black’s journey serves as an inspiring example of perseverance and determination in pursuing professional basketball aspirations.