Tar Heel Showdown: Which UNC Basketball Team Will Shine Brighter in 2025-26?
The leaves haven’t even fully turned in Chapel Hill, but the buzz inside Carmichael Arena and the Dean E. Smith Center is already deafening. For the first time in recent memory, both North Carolina’s men’s and women’s basketball programs enter the season armed with the kind of rosters that could make real noise on the national stage. And while no one is officially keeping score between the two, Tar Heel fans are asking the inevitable question: which team will finish stronger when the 2025-26 season is said and done?
Hubert Davis’ Reloaded Men’s Team
For head coach Hubert Davis, this season is about redemption and consistency. After a roller-coaster four years at the helm from a national title appearance in 2022 to missing the tournament altogether in 2023 the Tar Heels are once again stacked.
The headliner is freshman sensation Caleb Wilson, a projected top lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Wilson’s athleticism, shot-making, and versatility could make him one of the most impactful freshmen in the country. He’s joined by fellow first-years Derek Dixon and Isaiah Denis, who bring energy and depth.
The transfer portal also brought reinforcements. Henri Veesaar, a 7-footer from Arizona, will anchor the frontcourt, while Kyan Evans (Colorado State), Jaydon Young (Virginia Tech), Ivan Matlekovic (High Point), and international standout Luka Bogavac add scoring options and toughness. Add in returning big men James Brown and Zayden High, and suddenly, Davis has the deepest post rotation he’s had since taking the job.
The burning question? Can Davis finally find consistency in big games and guide UNC back to championship form?
Courtney Banghart’s Veteran-Led Women’s Squad
While Davis leans on youth and transfers, Courtney Banghart banks on continuity and experience. Returning guard Lanie Grant is poised for a breakout sophomore campaign after earning ACC All-Freshman honors. Reniya Kelly, now entering her third season, has emerged as one of the ACC’s most explosive guards after doubling her scoring output last year. Meanwhile, defensive anchor Indya Nivar returns for her final season after leading the team in steals and becoming the heartbeat of the Tar Heels’ perimeter defense.
The newcomers add intrigue. Nyla Brooks, Taliyah Henderson, and Taissa Queiroz headline a top-20 freshman class, while international standout Liza Astakhova brings much-needed experience from the Russian PBL. Transfers Nyla Harris (Louisville) and Elina Aarnisalo (UCLA) also arrive ready to contribute from day one.
The women’s program has shown steady postseason consistency under Banghart, reaching the Sweet 16 last season and often securing high NCAA seeds. This year, the blend of veterans and fresh talent could push UNC even further.
The Bigger Picture: A Basketball School at Its Core
What makes this season unique for Carolina fans is that both programs could be nationally relevant at the same time. While the men’s team has the flashier names and NBA lottery potential, the women’s team may be the safer bet when it comes to postseason success.
If Davis’ squad figures out its chemistry quickly, the ceiling is sky-high. But Banghart’s team has the edge in stability, leadership, and experience in big games.
And let’s not forget in Chapel Hill, success isn’t measured just by wins, but by how deep you can dance in March.
The Verdict?
It’s too early to tell whether the men or women will have the better season, but one thing is certain: North Carolina basketball fans are spoiled this year. Two squads with legitimate March Madness potential. Two paths to glory. And one university that continues to live up to its moniker as a true basketball school.
For now, the only debate left is: which team will shine brighter when the lights are brightest?
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