UNC Basketball Recharges with Elite Talent, Secures Top-10 Prospect Caleb Wilson
North Carolina continues to shape a championship-caliber future with the addition of 5-star forward Caleb Wilson. The 6-foot-9 star from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School in Atlanta, currently ranked No. 6 in the 2025 class, brings major versatility and frontcourt firepower to Chapel Hill.
Headliners from the 2025 Class
- Caleb Wilson: A dynamic 6’9” forward with high-level skills on both ends of the floor.
- Isaiah Denis: A smooth-scoring combo guard from Davidson Day (NC) known for his offensive adaptability.
- Derek Dixon: A quick, scoring-minded combo guard out of Gonzaga College High School in Washington, D.C.
Transfer Market Targets
UNC isn’t relying solely on high school recruits—key transfer prospects are also in the mix to elevate the roster:
- Kyan Evans (Colorado State): A sharp-shooting playmaker who could provide immediate backcourt depth.
- Kanon Catchings (BYU): A skilled forward planning an official visit to UNC.
- Tre Holloman (Michigan State): A seasoned point guard weighing UNC as a potential landing spot.
Loaded Backcourt Anchors the Tar Heels
North Carolina’s backcourt remains one of its biggest strengths, bolstered by proven talent and rising stars:
- RJ Davis: The reigning ACC Player of the Year returns to lead another postseason charge.
- Elliot Cadeau: Poised for a breakout sophomore season after a strong freshman campaign.
- Seth Trimble: A lockdown defender rejoining the team following a brief entry into the transfer portal.
With a blend of elite incoming freshmen and savvy veterans, Hubert Davis is building a roster with the tools to make another run at national contention.
Ex-UNC basketball guards secure starting roles at G League Elite Camp.
Tar Heel Guards Shine Bright: Former UNC Stars Earn Starting Spots at 2024 G League Elite Camp
Chapel Hill’s basketball legacy continues to resonate far beyond the ACC, as two former North Carolina guards made a strong impression at the 2024 G League Elite Camp. RJ Davis and Cormac Ryan, both standouts from last season’s UNC squad, earned starting roles during the highly competitive showcase, sending a powerful message about their readiness for the professional level.
The G League Elite Camp, an invite-only event held ahead of the NBA Draft Combine, functions as a critical proving ground for players on the cusp of taking the next step in their careers. It’s designed for top-tier prospects who are looking to make the leap into the NBA or solidify a spot in the G League system. Each year, the event offers a platform for overlooked or rising talents to perform in front of NBA scouts, team executives, and other key decision-makers. For Davis and Ryan, this camp provided not only an opportunity—but a stage to continue showcasing the skills they honed during their time at North Carolina.
RJ Davis, who ended his collegiate career as one of the most prolific scorers in UNC history, wasted no time reminding scouts why he’s long been viewed as a potential pro. His offensive instincts, court vision, and leadership were on full display during the camp’s opening drills and scrimmages. What stood out most, however, was his poise—something he cultivated over four years of running the show in Chapel Hill. Davis has always had a knack for stepping up in big moments, and at the G League Elite Camp, he brought that same clutch mentality.
In his final year at UNC, Davis averaged over 20 points per game and earned All-ACC honors, helping to lead the Tar Heels to a deep postseason run. His quick first step, tight handle, and ability to shoot from multiple ranges make him a dynamic offensive threat. But it’s his court leadership and defensive tenacity that often set him apart. Those qualities were evident during the camp, where he commanded respect from teammates and stood out in game situations—earning him a starting nod among a highly competitive field of guards.
Cormac Ryan, who transferred to North Carolina as a graduate student after playing at Notre Dame, also made a significant impact. Known for his sharpshooting ability and basketball IQ, Ryan continued to impress during the Elite Camp. While he may not have had the same scoring volume as Davis during his time at UNC, Ryan proved himself to be the kind of player who elevates his team by doing all the small, important things. His performance at the camp reflected that.
Ryan showed a deep understanding of the game’s nuances—timely rotations on defense, smart passing decisions, and floor spacing that allowed his team’s offense to flow. He also displayed the perimeter shooting touch that has long been his calling card. In an environment where every shot is scrutinized and every possession matters, Ryan’s ability to stay composed and execute made him stand out to scouts and coaches alike.
For both guards, earning starting roles at the G League Elite Camp is more than a recognition of talent—it’s a career-defining opportunity. The camp serves as a gateway to the NBA Draft Combine, and strong performances can lead to invitations to that even more exclusive showcase. From there, players often land on draft boards, secure two-way contracts, or earn invites to NBA Summer League rosters.
Davis and Ryan’s emergence at the camp is also a testament to the kind of preparation and development that takes place at UNC. Under head coach Hubert Davis, the Tar Heels have placed a renewed emphasis on player growth, professionalism, and readiness for the next level. RJ Davis, in particular, exemplifies that trajectory. Coming into college as a highly touted recruit, he developed year by year into a complete player and reliable leader. His journey from freshman contributor to senior captain and elite scorer is one that resonates deeply with Tar Heel fans.
Ryan’s path, while different, is equally inspiring. Transferring into a storied program like North Carolina can be daunting, but Ryan embraced the challenge. He quickly became a locker room presence and a player trusted in big-game scenarios. His mature approach to the game, sharpened over several years of college basketball, allowed him to fit seamlessly into UNC’s system—and now, it’s giving him a chance to take the next step in his own career.
The success of Davis and Ryan at the Elite Camp also reinforces something UNC fans have long believed: Carolina guards are built for the big stage. From past legends like Raymond Felton, Ty Lawson, and Joel Berry to more recent stars, the Tar Heel tradition is rich with backcourt talent that translates to the professional ranks. Davis and Ryan are the latest to follow in that lineage.
Their performances serve as an affirmation of their individual skill sets but also as a reflection of the culture and standard upheld in Chapel Hill. At a time when college basketball is increasingly transactional—filled with one-year stints and rapid transitions—Davis and Ryan represent what’s still possible through hard work, development, and commitment to team basketball.
For RJ Davis, in particular, the Elite Camp could be a launching pad. His combination of scoring prowess, leadership, and experience at the highest level of college basketball makes him a compelling prospect for NBA teams seeking steady guard play. He may not have the height of a prototypical NBA point guard, but his skill level, heart, and production speak volumes.
Ryan, too, is making his case. With so many NBA teams now valuing role players who can shoot, defend, and think the game, he fits the mold of a reliable 3-and-D option who can contribute immediately. His maturity and unselfishness make him an attractive target for organizations looking to fill out a roster with high-IQ, low-maintenance players.
Both guards are now in prime position to advance to the NBA Draft Combine. If they continue performing at this level, it’s entirely possible that they could earn Summer League invites or even training camp contracts with NBA teams. Regardless of what comes next, their time at the G League Elite Camp has already been a success—and a clear sign that their basketball journeys are far from over.
For UNC fans, it’s a moment of pride. Watching former players succeed at the professional level is always rewarding, but seeing them do it the right way—with humility, effort, and team-first mentalities—makes it even more meaningful. Davis and Ryan are not just representing themselves; they’re continuing to carry the Tar Heel banner into the next chapter of their careers.
In the days and weeks ahead, as draft preparations intensify and team workouts begin, both Davis and Ryan will be names to watch. Their performance at the G League Elite Camp has opened the door, and now it’s up to them to keep walking through it. But if their UNC careers and Elite Camp starts are any indication, they’re more than ready.
The Tar Heel legacy lives on—and it’s rising fast.
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