NIL has taken over the college basketball scene; there’s no doubt about that. Just take a look at UNC freshman Caleb Wilson, signing a multi-million dollar shoe deal with New Balance before even playing his first official game as a Tar Heel.
Money is now a factor for players to play at certain schools, making the negotiating sitch crucial for front offices. College basketball is starting to look like the NBA, to put it simply. Head Coach Hubert Davis is looking to keep up with it, hence the involvement of General Manager Jim Tanner.
Mar 21, 2025; Milwaukee, WI, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels guard RJ Davis (4) dribbles during the second half of a first round NCAA men’s tournament game against the Mississippi Rebels at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images / Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
However, it now raises the question: Do players still have an interest in playing at UNC?
Feb 8, 2025; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Hubert Davis reacts in the first half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images / Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
As of late, former Tar Heels big man Armando Bacot (all-time leading rebounder) and guard RJ Davis (second in UNC history in scoring) are two players who decided to stay five years at North Carolina. Bacot came into college seen as a potential one-and-done alongside his former teammate Cole Anthony, now with the Milwaukee Bucks. Davis, on the other hand, is within the Los Angeles Lakers’ organization.
Feb 26, 2024; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Armando Bacot (5) with guard RJ Davis (4) in the second half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images / Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Not to say that every player UNC receives in the future will stay all four years, but even speaking for the top recruits a part of the upcoming classes to graduate high school, it is important to make note of who is and not announcing their decision to play in Chapel Hill.
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