Henri Veesaar forgoes millions from UNC to pursue NBA career
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 23, 2026, 7:53 PM
Last updated Jun 23, 2026
Henri Veesaar has opted to enter the 2026 NBA Draft, leaving behind a potential $4.5 million NIL deal from North Carolina. The 7-footer enjoyed a breakout season with averages of 17.0 points and 8.7 rebounds, earning All-ACC Second Team honors. Multiple schools reportedly offered larger sums if he transferred, but Veesaar chosen to focus solely on professional basketball following four years in college. His draft projections vary, with some placing him in the late first round and others in the early second round. Veesaar's decision reflects a broader trend among some players prioritizing NBA aspirations over lucrative college offers.
- •Veesaar averaged 17.0 points and 8.7 rebounds at North Carolina.
- •He could have earned $4.5 million to return to college.
- •Transfer offers exceeded $6 million from multiple schools.
- •His draft stock varies between late first and early second round.
- 7:53 PMYahoo Sports — Henri Veesaar gave up millions from UNC to chase NBA dream ahead of 2026 Draft
"While he left the money in Chapel Hill, he's now living out his dream.
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