Henri Veesaar’s most lucrative opportunity wasn’t with Hawks before brutal injury

Former North Carolina center Henri Veesaar suffered a major pre-rookie season injury that is expected to sideline him for the entire year. Veesaar entered the 2026 NBA Draft following a productive college season, sliding to the Atlanta Hawks with the 52nd overall pick.

Prior to entering the draft, Veesaar had lucrative opportunities to remain in college basketball. Other universities were reportedly prepared to offer him NIL deals worth at least $5 million, while North Carolina could have offered approximately $4.5 million for his final season of eligibility.