THE PICK IS IN Drake Powell Drafted No. 22 Overall, Traded to the Brooklyn Nets

THE PICK IS IN ‼️ Drake Powell Drafted No. 22 Overall, Traded to the Brooklyn Nets 🔥

From Chapel Hill to the bright lights of the NBA — Drake Powell is officially headed to the league.

The standout North Carolina wing was selected 22nd overall in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, but the celebration didn’t end there. Moments later, it was announced that the pick had been traded to the Brooklyn Nets, who clearly had their eyes set on the two-way Carolina star all along.

This marks yet another milestone for the Tar Heel pipeline, as Powell becomes the latest in a long line of UNC greats to make the leap to the NBA. After a breakout sophomore season in Chapel Hill, Powell steadily rose up draft boards thanks to his elite defensive instincts, explosive athleticism, and improving offensive arsenal. Standing 6’6” with a 6’10” wingspan, he’s tailor-made for the modern game  a versatile, switchable defender who plays with motor and maturity well beyond his years.

From #ProHeels to #NextGenNets

Powell was a cornerstone for Hubert Davis’ squad, often drawing the toughest defensive assignments night in and night out. Whether locking down scorers on the perimeter or sliding into the paint for help defense, his presence was felt on every possession. Offensively, he improved dramatically as a slasher, mid-range shot creator, and spot-up shooter traits that made him an intriguing upside swing for NBA scouts.

Now, he’s joining a young, hungry Nets roster in need of perimeter defense and energy on both ends of the floor. Brooklyn has been assembling an exciting young core, and Powell fits perfectly into that blueprint. His ability to impact winning without needing the ball in his hands makes him a valuable piece in a system built around team play and high-IQ basketball.

The Road to This Moment

For Powell, this moment is the culmination of years of sacrifice, hard work, and steady development. He wasn’t always the flashiest player on the court but he was always the most locked in. From being a defensive stopper at UNC to emerging as one of the most complete wing prospects in the draft, he’s earned every ounce of this opportunity.

His rise should serve as inspiration for any player who takes pride in doing the dirty work Powell didn’t need a 30-point-per-game stat line to capture scouts’ attention. He just needed to keep showing up, defending like his life depended on it, and making his teammates better. And now, he’s reaping the rewards on the biggest stage basketball has to offer.

What’s Next?

The Nets are getting a player ready to make an impact right away. Expect Powell to carve out a role early with his defense and hustle, with plenty of room to grow offensively as he develops within the organization. Don’t be surprised if he becomes a fan favorite in Brooklyn his game, demeanor, and work ethic scream long-term success.

Congratulations, Drake Powell. The journey is just beginning.

🔵 From Carolina Blue to Brooklyn Black & White — it’s GO TIME.