As we know, the UNC basketball program lost a handful of players to the transfer portal this offseason.

Former five-star recruit Ian Jackson was arguably the Tar Heels' biggest transfer portal loss. The Bronx, New York native is heading home to join Rick Pitino and St. John's, as he finally opened up a bit on his decision to transfer.

On the latest episode of his podcast, 'The Captain Jack Show,' the former Tar Heel spoke a bit about his decision, citing looking for a "different opportunity" right from the jump.

Now, before he went on to discuss the reasoning, he did give a shoutout to the Carolina people, calling them "great people." By that, you'd assume that he's talking about the staff and his former teammates that he spent the 2024-2025 season with.

Then, he went on to say this:

"I feel like at Carolina, it just wasn't for me. It was some things I couldn't show or do on the floor that I feel like I could've done."

Sounds familiar, doesn't it?

If it does, then you've heard what Drake Powell, a fellow five-star from Jackson's recruiting class, had to say during the NBA Draft Combine a few weeks ago (if not, click here to find out!)

I, for one, still fully believe that Hubert Davis let Ian Jackson down. Just a year ago, Jackson raved about wanting to play for Davis, citing it as the driving factor in getting him to Chapel Hill. Fast forward to now, and Jackson is out here saying how "it just wasn't for me."

It's not just a coincidence that both Jackson and Powell feel the same way about their lone season in Chapel Hill (with both not returning for another year either).

Jackson had an up and down season at North Carolina, a year in which at times he looked like the best player on the floor for the UNC basketball program. On the flip side, there were plenty of instances (especially down the stretch) where Jackson was a bystander on the court, struggling to find meaningful minutes.

Now, Jackson has that different opportunity and hopes that returning home will be beneficial for him as he continues his collegiate career.

Check out Jackson's latest episode of 'The Captain Jack Podcast,' where the former UNC basketball guard dives into a variety of topics, including more about North Carolina and his decision to return to his home roots.