The Tar Heels had an impressive 2023-24 season, making it to the Sweet 16 after clinching the 2023 ACC Regular Season title. The big question now is whether North Carolina can repeat its success without key players Armando Bacot, Harrison Ingram, and Cormac Ryan, who have all moved on to the NBA. Despite these losses, the Tar Heels are fortunate to have RJ Davis, one of the top guards in the nation, leading the team. With head coach Hubert Davis entering his fourth year at the helm, the team seems to have momentum on its side as they aim to build upon last year’s achievements.
In a UNC basketball preview, fans are eager to see how the Tar Heels will fare in the upcoming season. The team underwent significant roster changes last season, with only 38.2% of minutes played and 45.5% of scoring returning from the previous year. This season, Hubert Davis is looking to address the team’s needs, particularly in recruiting transfers. While the coach still has time to bring in new players before the season starts, the team has already welcomed a highly touted freshman class, ranked eighth in the country by 247. The backcourt looks solid with players like Elliot Cadeau, RJ Davis, and Seth Trimble, but there may be pressure on Davis to add more depth, especially in the frontcourt.
The incoming freshmen class for North Carolina is expected to make an impact, with standouts Ian Jackson and Drake Powell leading the way. Jackson, the eighth-ranked prospect nationally, and Powell, ranked 11th, bring talent and depth to the team. James Brown, though not as highly ranked, will also play a crucial role, adding size at six-foot-nine. While Jackson and Powell may have to compete for playing time in a crowded backcourt, their skills are sure to contribute to the Tar Heels’ success. With a freshmen class ranked among the top in the nation, North Carolina fans have high hopes for the team this season.