Coast to Coast: Recruiting Updates and UNC Player Progress Reports

Coast to Coast: Recruiting Updates and UNC Player Progress Reports

The UNC basketball program continues to make waves on and off the court this summer, as coaches travel coast to coast tracking top talent and evaluating player development ahead of the 2025–26 season. With AAU events in full swing and summer workouts ramping up in Chapel Hill, the Inside Carolina team offers a comprehensive look at both the recruiting trail and the progress of current Tar Heels.

Recruiting Trail Buzz

The UNC coaching staff has been highly active across the country, making appearances at major grassroots tournaments hosted by Nike (EYBL), Adidas (3SSB), Under Armour (UAA), and Puma. Key prospects in the 2025 and 2026 classes were closely evaluated, with particular attention given to high-profile guards, versatile wings, and stretch forwards that align with head coach Hubert Davis’s modern, up-tempo system.

Among the standouts catching Carolina’s eye were:

• Caleb Holt (2026, SG) – The nation’s top-rated shooting guard, who recently scheduled visits to Kentucky and Alabama, continues to show elite two-way potential.

• Josiah Moseley (2025, PF) – A rising star with expanding range and excellent defensive instincts.

• Meleek Thomas (2025, CG) – A dynamic scorer who could be a perfect fit in the Tar Heels’ backcourt alongside Seth Trimble or Elliot Cadeau, should either return beyond next season.

Reports suggest that UNC is not just focused on raw athleticism but also on high-IQ players who can contribute early, adapt to multiple roles, and thrive in the culture Davis is building.

 Player Development Spotlight

Back home in Chapel Hill, the focus has shifted to internal growth. Returning players and incoming freshmen are deep into the offseason strength and conditioning program, and the early returns are promising.

Notable updates include:

• Jae’Lyn Withers has reportedly transformed his body and is emerging as a vocal leader on and off the floor.

• Zayden High, entering his sophomore season, is developing into a more consistent shooter and a stronger presence in the paint.

• Incoming freshmen like Ian Jackson and Drake Powell are impressing coaches with their energy, quick learning, and willingness to compete during scrimmages.

The coaching staff is said to be especially pleased with the team’s chemistry this offseason. Veterans are mentoring newcomers, and the gym has become a hub of competitive fire and team-first mentality—an encouraging sign for a group looking to make a deep March run next spring.