As college basketball gears up for another thrilling season, all eyes are once again locked on Chapel Hill. The North Carolina Tar Heels—among the most storied programs in NCAA history—are reloading for what could be a return to the summit of the men’s game.
The big question remains: Can UNC reestablish its dominance in 2025–26? Early signs suggest the answer might be a resounding yes.
Veteran Leadership Meets Hungry Talent
Head coach Hubert Davis enters this year with a roster that balances experienced stars and high-upside newcomers—arguably his most complete group since succeeding Roy Williams. Chief among those returning is standout guard RJ Davis. After weighing an NBA leap, he chose to return for one more season. Coming off a campaign where he averaged over 21 points and earned All-American honors, Davis will once again be the Tar Heels’ emotional and strategic anchor.
Alongside him, big man Jalen Washington is expected to take a major step forward. His growth into a reliable inside-out presence has fans excited about a modern offense built around spacing and versatility.
Transfers Inject New Life
UNC made strong moves in the transfer portal, bringing in Auburn’s Aiden Holloway. The dynamic point guard brings exceptional court vision and the ability to break down defenses—adding a jolt of playmaking.
Also joining the squad is 6’9” Oregon State forward Tyler Bilodeau, who provides toughness on the glass and defensive flexibility. With nearly ten players capable of contributing, Davis has more options than ever before.
Freshman Class Brings Energy
The incoming freshmen class looks promising, led by four-star forward Drake Powell—a North Carolina native whose high motor and selfless style fit perfectly into the Tar Heel culture.
He’ll be joined by Ian Jackson, a long, athletic wing known for highlight-reel plays and lockdown defense. While they won’t be asked to carry the team from day one, these rookies could develop into important contributors by March.
Defense and Depth: Key Ingredients
One of the most notable improvements under Davis has been on the defensive end. After early struggles, his teams have become more disciplined and aggressive. This season should be no exception, especially with versatile defenders like Seth Trimble and Elliot Cadeau expected to play critical roles.
Depth, long an issue for UNC, now looks like a strength. Davis can mix lineups to play fast, go big, or press without wearing down his starters.
A Schedule Built to Test
UNC won’t have an easy path. A stacked non-conference slate features showdowns with Kansas at home, Kentucky in the CBS Sports Classic, and reigning national champion UConn in December—a true early measuring stick.
Within the ACC, Duke, Miami, and Virginia remain formidable obstacles. But for a blue-blood program like UNC, the season will ultimately be measured by how far it goes in the NCAA Tournament.
A Team Poised for a Deep Run
If this group stays healthy and gels, it could be Hubert Davis’ most complete team yet. With RJ Davis leading, a deep supporting cast, and an improved defense, North Carolina looks primed to contend both in the ACC and nationally.
The Tar Heels aren’t sneaking up on anyone—but that’s never been their style. This season, they aren’t just planning to compete; they’re determined to reclaim their place among college basketball’s elite.
UNC Staff Eyes Rising Star Kohl Rosario
Meanwhile, UNC basketball may soon host one of this spring’s breakout grassroots stars.
Kohl Rosario, a junior guard from Moravian Prep in North Carolina, announced Thursday that he’s received an offer from Hubert Davis and the Tar Heels.
According to 247Sports’ Dushawn London, North Carolina is battling Florida State for Rosario’s final official visit. The 6’5”, 185-pound four-star has already locked in visits to Oregon, Kansas, Texas A&M, Duke, and Baylor in a packed June schedule.
Rosario is set to decide between UNC and FSU for his last trip in early July. Though ranked just No. 96 in the 247Sports 2026 Composite, he’s been among the EYBL’s fastest risers this spring and is widely projected to climb into the top 50.
His recruitment has exploded recently, piling up nearly 20 scholarship offers—half of them coming in just the past month.