You really believe UConn would be more of a pick-up than North Carolina?
If you argue UConn vs UNC in a vacuum, then no, I don't see UConn as the better selection, but arguing in situ, then yes, I think there is a stronger case for UConn than UNC. And I don't think it's close.
Athletics is a push. UNC with an advantage and UConn closing.
Academics is the same as athletics.
Fan potential same as athletics and academics except that UConn has more of an upside and less competition.
Culture and geography. UConn hands down.
Negatives for UNC that UConn doesn't have. Making the case. UNC will fight tooth and nail to retain its relationship with Duke. Taking Duke with UNC leaves UVa and contiguous territory out. Bad geography. The SEC isn't poaching any UConn territory anytime soon. A long wait time for UNC because they don't want the B1G, resistence will be strong and difficult and time-consuming to overcome...if indeed possible to do so. I think UNC would rather join the SEC than the B1G...and it would be a better fit for them.