UNC Still Firmly in Contention for Five-Star Forward Anthony Thompson
The North Carolina basketball program remains a key player in the recruitment of five-star 2026 wing Anthony Thompson.
A standout at Western Reserve Academy (Ohio), Thompson has been high on UNC’s radar since head coach Hubert Davis extended him a scholarship offer in January. Since then, the skilled lefty has drawn major attention across the country, picking up more than 30 offers from top-tier Division I programs.
In late April, Thompson narrowed his list to 15 schools, with the Tar Heels still in the mix. Other programs still in the hunt include Auburn, BYU, Georgetown, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisville, Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Purdue, Texas, and Xavier.
Speaking with The Field of 68’s Ani Umana, Thompson shared his next steps: “I’m hoping to narrow it a little bit more. I’m trying to take some visits, hopefully in the summertime, and commit by the end of the year. But it’s still pretty open right now.”
At 6-foot-8 and 185 pounds, Thompson ranks No. 11 nationally, No. 3 among small forwards, and is the top-ranked player in Ohio, according to the 247Sports 2026 Composite. He’s known for his smooth jumper, elite length (reportedly with a 7-foot-2 wingspan), and versatile offensive game.
Inspired by NBA star Kevin Durant, Thompson says he’s looking for a school where he can play both inside and out and contribute to winning in a major way.
247Sports analyst Adam Finkelstein called him “a skilled lefty forward with elite shot-making ability and impressive length,” highlighting his ability to shoot over defenders with ease and score from deep or off the dribble.
With his recruitment still wide open, UNC continues to be in strong position as Thompson evaluates his options heading into a pivotal summer.
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