UNC’s Seth Trimble Plants Roots and Takes Leap with Ben & Jerry’s Ownership

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The streets of Chapel Hill have long been a second home for Seth Trimble. From the Dean Dome to Franklin Street, the North Carolina guard has left his mark on the hardwood. Now, he’s extending his footprint in a very different way — by stepping into business ownership.

Trimble, known for his explosive athleticism and relentless energy, has joined the growing list of college athletes making bold moves off the court. His latest venture? Becoming a part-owner of a local Ben & Jerry’s shop on Franklin Street, just steps away from the heart of Tar Heel country.

While the move might surprise some fans, for Trimble, it’s about far more than serving up scoops of Cookie Dough and Cherry Garcia. It’s about planting roots in a community that has given him so much support during his college career.

“This place has shaped me in ways I’ll never forget,” Trimble shared. “I wanted to give back in a way that lasts, and being part of something that brings people together felt right. Ice cream has a way of doing that.”

A Symbol of NIL Era Opportunities

Trimble’s leap into business reflects the broader opportunities afforded to student-athletes in the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) era. Beyond endorsements and appearances, ownership has become an emerging avenue for players looking to build long-term wealth and stability.

UNC head coach Hubert Davis praised his guard’s ambition:
“Seth is showing maturity well beyond his years. Basketball will always be there, but this shows he’s thinking about life after the game, too.”

A Place for Family, Fans, and Future

Trimble’s decision carries personal weight as well. His family was present on opening day, standing beside him as he welcomed customers. For him, it was more than a business ribbon-cutting — it was the start of a legacy.

“I’ve always believed in hard work and thinking ahead,” Trimble said. “This is a step toward building something lasting — something my family, my teammates, and this community can share in.”

As Tar Heel fans lined up for free samples and selfies with one of their favorite guards, the moment felt bigger than basketball. It was about community, entrepreneurship, and a young athlete daring to take a step few of his peers have considered.

For Trimble, this ownership is just the beginning. He’s already discussing potential charity tie-ins, with proceeds from certain flavors going toward local youth programs and Chapel Hill initiatives.

“Basketball gave me this platform,” he said, “but I want to make sure I use it for more than just me. This is about building bridges and giving back.”

From the roar of the Dean Dome to the hum of an ice cream freezer, Seth Trimble is proving that his impact on Chapel Hill will last long after his playing days. His leap into ownership is more than a business move — it’s a statement that he’s here to stay.