With North Carolina’s first exhibition game just two months away, Coach Hubert Davis has officially put the finishing touches on what may be his most transformative offseason since taking over in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels’ roster has been completely reshaped, with the final piece of the puzzle coming on August 14, when Montenegrin wing Luka Bogavac joined the program. His arrival adds international experience and perimeter firepower to a roster that looks nothing like the one that walked off the court last spring.
This overhaul was not just a choice—it was a necessity. The Tar Heels lost three key starters in the offseason: dynamic guard Drake Powell declared for the NBA, sophomore sensation Elliot Cadeau surprised many by transferring to Michigan, and veteran star RJ Davis wrapped up his college career. Faced with the prospect of replacing so much production, Davis wasted no time assembling a roster that blends proven talent, raw potential, and a variety of playing styles.
The result? A team that looks poised to be deeper, longer, and more balanced than last year’s group. UNC’s new-look lineup features six experienced transfers, a highly regarded four-player freshman class, and a few returning contributors who know the program’s culture inside and out. This mix of savvy veterans and exciting young talent has given fans plenty to be optimistic about—and plenty to debate as the season draws near.
A Projected Starting Five Built for Balance
When you look at the pieces Davis has put together, it’s clear he’s building for both immediate success and long-term potential. The projected starting five reflects that philosophy:
-
Point Guard — Kyan Evans (Junior, Transfer from Colorado State)
Evans is expected to take the reins at point guard, bringing sharp shooting, strong decision-making, and leadership to a backcourt that lost its top two ball-handlers. His ability to control tempo and hit shots from deep could stabilize an offense that was inconsistent last season. -
Shooting Guard — Seth Trimble (Senior)
Trimble is the lone returning starter from last year, and his presence provides a crucial link between the old and new eras of Carolina basketball. Known for his athleticism, perimeter defense, and relentless energy, Trimble is expected to take on a much larger role, both as a scorer and as a veteran leader in his final season. -
Wing — Luka Bogavac (Freshman)
Don’t let the “freshman” label fool you—Bogavac brings professional experience from Europe and a polished offensive game. At nearly 22 years old, his size and shooting ability make him a natural fit on the wing, where he’ll be counted on to stretch defenses and contribute immediately. -
Power Forward — Caleb Wilson (Freshman)
Wilson, one of the crown jewels of UNC’s recruiting class, is a 6’10” forward with a rare combination of length, athleticism, and skill. He’s the type of freshman who can impact games from day one, whether it’s through rebounding, rim protection, or creating offense in transition. -
Center — Henri Veesaar (Redshirt Junior, Transfer from Arizona)
The 7-foot Veesaar is the kind of big man UNC has lacked in recent years: a true rim protector who can also contribute offensively. His presence in the paint should make the Tar Heels more formidable on defense while giving them a reliable post option on the other end.
Depth Like Never Before
One of the biggest storylines heading into this season is whether Davis will finally utilize a deep rotation. In his first four years, he often relied heavily on his starters, sometimes to the team’s detriment late in the year. This season, however, he has the personnel to change that.
-
Jonathan Powell (Sophomore, Transfer from West Virginia) brings elite three-point shooting off the bench, giving UNC a needed scoring boost on the wing.
-
Jarin Stevenson (Junior, Transfer from Alabama) adds versatility in the frontcourt, capable of playing both power forward and center.
-
Zayden High (Sophomore) returns from a year-long suspension and remains one of the biggest wild cards on the roster.
-
James Brown (Sophomore), while still developing, could provide valuable minutes as a backup big.
-
Jaydon Young (Sophomore, Transfer from Virginia Tech) offers athleticism and scoring punch as a secondary guard.
-
Freshmen Derek Dixon and Isaiah Denis will likely see early minutes in nonconference play as they develop.
Behind them, Ivan Matlekovic (Sophomore, Transfer from High Point) gives UNC a massive practice body to challenge Veesaar, while walk-ons Elijah Davis (Coach Davis’ son), John Holbrook, and Evan Smith round out the roster.
What’s Next for the Tar Heels?
The biggest question now is how quickly this group can gel. Chemistry, trust, and defined roles will be crucial, particularly with so many new faces. October 24 will provide the first real glimpse when UNC travels to Salt Lake City for an exhibition game that will feature two of the nation’s top freshmen in Caleb Wilson and BYU’s A.J. Dybantsa.
Coach Davis is unlikely to reveal his opening-night starting lineup at next week’s summer press conference, but one thing is certain: this Tar Heel team has the pieces to be a major factor nationally if they can come together. After a rollercoaster few seasons, UNC fans are hoping this roster overhaul delivers not just wins, but the consistency and championship-level basketball they’ve been craving.
Leave a Reply