Drake Powell Declares for NBA Draft After One Season at UNC

Drake Powell Declares for NBA Draft After One Season at UNC Tar Heels Send Him Off with a Classy Message

After just one year wearing Carolina Blue, freshman wing Drake Powell is making the leap to the professional ranks. The former five-star recruit out of North Carolina has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, and this week he earned a major opportunity: an invite to the NBA Draft Combine, the league’s premier showcase event for aspiring draftees.

The moment the news broke, Powell’s former program made sure to show love.

“Best of luck at the Draft Combine, @drakepoww!” read the message from UNC Basketball’s official social media account, a short but sincere send-off for one of the Tar Heels’ most athletic and intriguing young prospects.

A One-and-Done Journey

Powell’s freshman season in Chapel Hill was filled with flashes of promise. Though he wasn’t always a focal point of the offense, the 6-foot-6 forward showed elite perimeter defense, athleticism in transition, and a willingness to do the little things traits that drew the attention of NBA scouts throughout the year.

His role at UNC often meant deferring to upperclassmen, but that never stopped Powell from making his presence felt. As the year went on, his confidence grew, and by the time the season ended, he was already being mentioned as a legitimate draft sleeper with upside.

Draft Combine Invitation Boosts Stock

Being invited to the NBA Draft Combine is a major milestone and a clear indicator that Powell is on the radar of teams across the league. At the Combine, Powell will have the chance to go head-to-head with many of the nation’s top prospects in front of general managers, scouts, and decision-makers.

For a player like Powell, who has the physical tools and defensive prowess NBA teams covet, a strong showing in interviews and scrimmages could significantly boost his stock.

Tar Heel Legacy and Next Steps

Though his time in Chapel Hill was brief, Powell’s connection to the program runs deep. A North Carolina native, he grew up dreaming of playing for the Tar Heels. Now, he leaves the program with gratitude and the best wishes of a fanbase that saw his growth firsthand.

While it’s unclear where Powell will land on draft night, one thing is certain: he’s betting on himself. With elite physical tools, two-way potential, and a strong work ethic, Powell has the makings of a long-term NBA contributor especially if he lands in the right development system.

As for UNC, Powell’s departure creates another spot for the Tar Heels to reload as they continue shaping their roster for another deep postseason run.

But for now, the spotlight belongs to Drake Powell the latest Tar Heel chasing his NBA dream.