Tar Heels Tip Off New Era: UNC Men’s Basketball Opens 2025–26 Practice at the Smith Center
The wait is over—at least officially. The North Carolina Tar Heels men’s basketball team has finally opened practice for the 2025–26 season at the Dean E. Smith Center.
Of course, anyone close to the program knows this has been in the works for weeks. Thanks to the NCAA’s expanded allowances, preseason workouts had already given fans and staff a taste of what this year’s squad could look like. Still, there was something special about the official whistle on Monday afternoon: the clock is now ticking toward next Saturday’s Blue-White Game and the Nov. 3 season opener against Central Arkansas.
A Roster Rebuilt
Carolina’s roster hardly resembles the group fans watched last year. With 11 new names on the sheet, Hubert Davis and his staff are blending a roster full of promise, versatility, and youthful energy. Social media spotlights and Carolina Insider features have been introducing each new face weekly, with freshman Derek Dixon set to be this weekend’s focus.
What stands out early? Freshman forward Caleb Wilson. The 6-foot-9 talent is already flashing elite athleticism around the rim finishing lobs, swatting shots, and cleaning up offensive boards. With seven-footer Henri Veesaar in the fold to battle opposing big men, Wilson’s quickness and versatility make him a matchup nightmare.
Even returners are turning heads. Forward James Brown earned a loud “Welcome to the party, JB!” from Coach Davis after muscling through the lane for a two-handed dunk on Monday.
Davis Demands Energy
While there was plenty of excitement, Davis wasted no time demanding more from his team. Just 17 seconds into Tuesday’s fast break drill, he stopped practice cold.
“We’re not having this,” he barked. “No one is communicating. No one is talking.”
Everyone reset. The clock restarted. When play resumed, the Smith Center was noticeably louder as players made a conscious effort to stay vocal and connected.
That kind of accountability, Davis has emphasized, will be a cornerstone of Carolina’s culture moving forward.
Scrimmage Standouts
Tuesday’s session also featured a brief scrimmage, offering fans an early glimpse of the chemistry being built. Wilson again shined with his rim presence, while Seth Trimble looked steady and composed. Sophomore Zayden High, meanwhile, put together some of his most impressive minutes of the preseason another encouraging sign for a roster searching for reliable contributors.
Beyond the Court: Montross Day of Service
UNC practices are never just about basketball. This week, players and staff wore Montross Day of Service shirts in honor of the late Tar Heel legend Eric Montross. On Tuesday, players joined the cause by helping pack emergency toiletry kits for the Me Fine Foundation, reflecting the program’s commitment to honoring Montross’ legacy of service.
Growing Games, Building Bonds
Wilson’s confidence isn’t limited to the paint. While he relishes lob finishes and rim protection, he revealed that his go-to basket is a post fadeaway a skill polished with the guidance of Sean May. He’s also been working on a jump hook, a move that could soon become a new weapon in his arsenal.
Meanwhile, freshman guard Jonathan Powell spoke about advice he received from NBA alum Cam Johnson, who told him he saw shades of himself in Powell’s game. “He told me to keep going, stay in the gym, and create my own path,” Powell said. Those alumni ties, forged in summer scrimmages, continue to bridge generations of Tar Heels.
Looking Ahead
With less than two weeks until fans pack the Smith Center for the Blue-White Game, the excitement around Chapel Hill is building. This team is unproven but undeniably intriguing: a blend of fresh talent, old-school toughness, and a head coach determined to raise the standard.
For now, practice is where it begins. And if this week is any indication, Carolina basketball is preparing for a season of high expectations and even higher energy.
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