Kyan Evans Commits to North Carolina After Stellar Season at Colorado State

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Kyan Evans, a standout guard from Colorado State, announced his commitment to the University of North Carolina on Wednesday night, marking a significant addition to the Tar Heels’ basketball program.

The 6-foot-2, 175-pound sophomore had a breakout season with the Rams, helping lead his team to a Mountain West conference championship and a win in the NCAA Tournament. Evans averaged 10.6 points and 3.1 assists per game while earning Honorable Mention All-Mountain West honors.

Notably, he ranked No. 24 nationally in three-point shooting percentage at 44.6%. His performance in the NCAA Tournament showcased his skills, where he averaged 16.5 points over two games, shooting 8-for-13 from beyond the arc.

Evans is the third transfer portal commitment for North Carolina this offseason, joining West Virginia’s Jonathan Powell and Arizona’s Henri Veesaar. The Tar Heels are seeking a lead guard after losing two-year starter Elliot Cadeau to the transfer portal on March 25, along with five-year starter RJ Davis.

Originally from Kansas City, Mo., Evans has two seasons of eligibility remaining after his time at Colorado State. He made a seamless transition from a limited role in his freshman year — where he averaged just 8.1 minutes per game — to becoming a key starter, playing all 36 games in his sophomore season.

Reflecting on his past season, Evans stated, “I knew what it was coming here. I knew who I was behind, and I knew I was just going to learn last year and get better throughout this year. I think just everything has just accumulated up to where I’m at now.”

His shooting statistics for conference play were impressive: he led the Mountain West in true shooting percentage (70.3%), free throw percentage (88.9%), and ranked second in both three-point percentage (45.2%) and effective field goal percentage (66.2%).

Colorado State head coach Niko Medved praised Evans’ development, saying, “He’s an unbelievable competitor, he’s a live it hoops guy. Just watching his development this year has just been special.” Medved highlighted Evans’ ability to control the game and his significant contributions throughout the season.

In addition to playing alongside First Team All-Conference player Nique Clifford, Evans demonstrated his playmaking abilities by totaling five or more assists in several games. He was recognized as a three-star prospect from Kansas City (Mo.) Staley High School and was named the 2023 Missouri Gatorade Player of the Year.

With Evans’ decision to join North Carolina, the Gophers missed out on a key target as they aim to improve their roster. Minnesota head coach Niko Medved, having previously coached Evans at Colorado State, was reportedly hoping to bring him to Minnesota, but the commitment to UNC signals a new chapter for Evans on a larger stage.

As the Tar Heels prepare for the upcoming season, Evans’ arrival is poised to significantly bolster their backcourt as they adapt to new roster dynamics and aim for success in a highly competitive environment.