As another thrilling college basketball season approaches, all eyes are turning once more to Chapel Hill — where the Tar Heels may be on the brink of something special.
North Carolina, a program steeped in history and championships, appears poised for a return to national prominence in the 2025–26 campaign.
So the big question is: Can UNC reclaim its place among the sport’s elite? Early signs suggest they just might.
A Veteran Core Meets a Fresh Wave of Talent
Head coach Hubert Davis enters the season with arguably the deepest, most well-rounded roster of his tenure. Leading the charge is RJ Davis, the All-American guard who passed up the NBA to come back for one last shot at glory. After averaging over 21 points per game last year, Davis brings leadership, clutch scoring, and a calming presence to a team with big goals.
Jalen Washington is another name to watch. The promising big man has taken significant strides in his development and could be the inside-out stretch option UNC has been missing — a player capable of opening up the offense and creating mismatches on the perimeter.
Portal Pickups with Immediate Impact
North Carolina didn’t stand still in the transfer market either. They added former Auburn standout Aiden Holloway, a quick, crafty point guard with elite vision and a knack for breaking down defenses. Holloway’s ability to push the tempo and create for others will inject new energy into UNC’s attack.
Another key addition is Tyler Bilodeau, a rugged 6’9” forward from Oregon State known for his rebounding, defense, and blue-collar style. His presence in the frontcourt could give the Tar Heels some much-needed physicality and flexibility.
A Talented Freshman Class Waiting in the Wings
The Tar Heels’ incoming freshmen won’t be asked to lead right away, but they bring plenty of promise. Four-star forward Drake Powell — a homegrown North Carolinian — fits the UNC mold with his effort, defense, and team-first mentality. Meanwhile, explosive wing Ian Jackson brings athleticism, length, and upside on both ends of the court.
This group could become a key part of the rotation as the season progresses — especially as March draws near.
Defense and Depth: The New Identity
Since taking over the program, Davis has worked steadily to build a more disciplined, tough-minded defensive team. That evolution continues this year with long, athletic defenders like Seth Trimble and Elliot Cadeau poised to take on major roles.
Perhaps most importantly, the depth of this roster is no longer a liability. With a bench that can go 8-10 players deep, UNC has the flexibility to adapt to any style of play, apply pressure, and keep its starters fresh deep into games.
A Gauntlet of Tests Ahead
UNC’s schedule will offer plenty of chances to prove itself. Non-conference tilts against powerhouses like Kansas, Kentucky, and defending national champion UConn will provide early tests. The ACC remains a minefield too, with Duke, Miami, and Virginia all expected to contend.
But at Carolina, success isn’t measured just by wins in January or February — it’s about what happens in March.
A Championship-Caliber Blueprint
If this team stays healthy and finds chemistry, it could be Hubert Davis’ most complete group yet. With a seasoned leader in RJ Davis, quality depth, elite guard play, and a renewed commitment to defense, North Carolina looks ready to contend again — not just in the ACC, but nationally.
This isn’t a team flying under the radar. UNC rarely does. But with all the pieces in place, the Tar Heels aren’t just aiming high — they’re gunning for another championship run.
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