UNC’s RJ Davis, Ven-Allen Lubin, and Cade Tyson Earn Spots on 2024–25 All-ACC Academic Team
Tar Heels Trio Honored for Excellence On and Off the Court
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Success at the University of North Carolina has always been measured by more than just wins and banners. This week, the Atlantic Coast Conference confirmed what Tar Heel fans have long known: several of their men’s basketball players are just as committed in the classroom as they are on the hardwood.
Graduate guard RJ Davis, along with juniors Ven-Allen Lubin and Cade Tyson, were named to the 2024–25 All-ACC Academic Men’s Basketball Team, the conference announced Tuesday afternoon. The honor recognizes student-athletes who exemplify the true meaning of “student-athlete” by excelling both in academics and athletic competition.
A Leader in Every Sense: RJ Davis
RJ Davis continues to build his legacy at UNC—not only as a leader on the floor but as a standout in academic achievement. The graduate student from White Plains, New York, is pursuing a graduate certificate in leadership development at Carolina, a fitting program for someone who has been the heartbeat of the Tar Heels for multiple seasons.
This marks the third time Davis has earned All-ACC Academic honors, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most complete student-athletes in the ACC. Known for his clutch shooting and unshakable poise, Davis led the Tar Heels in scoring and leadership during the 2024–25 season, but he’s also spent considerable time cultivating his future beyond basketball.
“RJ represents everything we want UNC basketball to be about,” head coach Hubert Davis said in a statement. “He’s a role model for our younger players, and his work in the classroom is every bit as impressive as what he does on game day.”
Rising Stars in the Classroom: Lubin and Tyson
Joining Davis are junior forwards Ven-Allen Lubin and Cade Tyson, who each made their first appearances on the All-ACC Academic Team. Both are majoring in exercise and sport science—a rigorous academic track that often combines coursework in physiology, biomechanics, and health science.
Lubin, a transfer from Notre Dame and native of Orlando, Florida, quickly carved out a vital role in the Tar Heels’ rotation this past season. His physical play and relentless motor made him a key contributor in the frontcourt. Equally relentless in his studies, Lubin has balanced the challenges of adapting to a new team while maintaining academic excellence.
Meanwhile, Cade Tyson, a sharpshooting wing from Monroe, North Carolina, demonstrated his value both as a high-IQ player and a committed student. After transferring to UNC from Belmont, Tyson proved to be one of the ACC’s most efficient scorers, particularly from beyond the arc. Off the court, his transition to Carolina’s academic rigor hasn’t slowed him down a bit.
“Ven and Cade are examples of what’s possible when you fully commit to being a student-athlete,” said Hubert Davis. “They’ve shown maturity beyond their years, and we’re incredibly proud of how they’ve embraced all aspects of their Carolina experience.”
The Standard for All-ACC Academic Honors
To qualify for the All-ACC Academic Team, student-athletes must meet stringent criteria:
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A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0,
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A GPA of at least 3.0 in the most recent semester or quarter, and
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Active participation in at least 50 percent of their team’s games.
The selection process is competitive and includes hundreds of players across the conference, making each inclusion a notable distinction.
Excellence Beyond the Court
For UNC, having three players recognized speaks volumes about the program’s culture under Hubert Davis—a culture that emphasizes not only competitive greatness but personal growth and educational success. In an era when NIL, the transfer portal, and NBA aspirations dominate headlines, the Tar Heels continue to prove that excellence in academics remains a top priority.
“College is about preparing these young men for life—not just the next game,” Hubert Davis added. “These guys are excelling in that mission, and we couldn’t be prouder.”
As the 2025–26 season looms on the horizon, fans can rest assured that the foundation of Carolina Basketball is in good hands—led by student-athletes who are setting the standard in every aspect of their collegiate journey.
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