‘Glad To Have You Back’: UNC Basketball Fans Celebrate Shocking Return of Former 4-Star Prospect from Transfer Portal — But There’s a Twist…………
Chapel Hill, NC – June 17, 2025 — In one of the most unexpected moves of the offseason, former 4-star football prospect-turned-basketball hopeful, Marcus “MJ” Reynolds, has announced his return to the University of North Carolina — but this time, not just as a football player. Reynolds, a two-sport athlete who had previously entered the NCAA transfer portal, is rejoining the Tar Heels with plans to contribute to both the football and basketball programs.
UNC fans, particularly those loyal to the storied basketball program, are buzzing with excitement and disbelief.
“Glad to have you back, MJ!” flooded social media shortly after Reynolds posted a photo of himself in both a football jersey and a UNC basketball uniform. The caption read: “Unfinished business. Let’s run it back — on the field and the court.”
Reynolds, a 6-foot-4, 210-pound athlete from Greensboro, was ranked as a 4-star wide receiver coming out of high school in 2023, but also made waves on the AAU basketball circuit as a combo guard. While he initially chose to focus on football at UNC, he quietly participated in offseason basketball training sessions during his sophomore year.
After entering the transfer portal in April citing a desire to “explore all athletic options,” rumors began to swirl that he was eyeing a full transition to basketball. Several mid-major programs expressed interest in him as a potential dual-sport transfer. However, Tuesday’s announcement confirmed that Reynolds would remain in Chapel Hill — committing himself to both football and basketball under the Tar Heels’ banner.
UNC basketball head coach Hubert Davis welcomed the news with open arms. “Marcus is a rare athlete. His versatility, toughness, and commitment to Carolina are everything we look for. We’re thrilled to officially bring him into the program,” Davis said.
Reynolds’ return marks a unique crossover moment for UNC Athletics. While UNC has had dual-sport athletes before — most notably Julius Peppers — it’s rare to see someone attempt the feat in today’s high-pressure collegiate landscape.
“I grew up dreaming of wearing Carolina blue on the court,” Reynolds told reporters in a brief Zoom call. “Coach Brown and Coach Davis both supported me. They didn’t make me choose. They told me to chase my dream, and I’m doing just that.”
The reaction from UNC fans was overwhelmingly positive.
“This kid is special,” one fan posted on X. “To play at the highest level in both sports? That’s Tar Heel grit. Welcome back, MJ!”
With Reynolds back in Chapel Hill, expectations are rising for both programs. On the football field, he’s expected to be a key red-zone target. On the hardwood, he’ll likely start as a role player in the backcourt but could develop into a rotation piece as he adjusts to the pace of ACC play.
For now, fans are simply celebrating the return of a dynamic athlete who chose Chapel Hill — not once, but twice.
“MJ is back. Let the show begin.”
