UNC Lands Gonzaga Big Man Recruit, Nyk Lewis — 7-Foot, No. 55 Overall Prospect Commits to Tar Heels Over Power-5 Heavyweights
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — In a monumental recruiting coup that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball landscape, the University of North Carolina Tar Heels have secured a commitment from elite 7-foot center Nyk Lewis, the No. 55 overall prospect in the 2025 class. Lewis, who was previously committed to Gonzaga, flipped to UNC after being heavily pursued by several top Power-5 programs.
The news was confirmed Thursday morning, just hours after Lewis made the announcement via a live stream surrounded by family, coaches, and teammates at his high school gym in Seattle, Washington. His decision marks a significant victory for head coach Hubert Davis and the Tar Heels as they continue building a championship-caliber roster for the future.
A Massive Addition for the Tar Heels
Nyk Lewis is widely regarded as one of the most promising big men in the country, combining imposing size with a modern skill set. At 7 feet tall and 235 pounds, Lewis is a mobile, rim-protecting presence who also boasts the ability to stretch the floor and knock down mid-range jumpers. His footwork, rebounding instincts, and passing ability make him an ideal fit for UNC’s fast-paced, high-IQ offensive system.
Lewis averaged 18.2 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks per game during his junior year at Rainier Beach High School, earning All-State honors and gaining national attention from recruiting analysts. His AAU performances with Seattle Rotary further elevated his profile, especially after dominating top-tier competition at the Nike EYBL circuit.
Why He Chose UNC
In his announcement, Lewis cited UNC’s tradition, coaching staff, and development track record as key reasons for his decision.
> “North Carolina just felt like home. Coach Davis really believed in me and showed me a clear plan for how I can grow — not just as a player, but as a man,” said Lewis. “The history, the fans, the culture — it’s something I want to be a part of.”
He also credited recent conversations with UNC alumni and current players for helping solidify his decision, noting the “family-first” culture that defines the Tar Heels program.
Flipping From Gonzaga
Lewis’s original commitment to Gonzaga last fall had positioned him as a cornerstone of the Bulldogs’ next great class. However, sources close to his recruitment indicated that recent changes in the Zags’ staff, combined with increased interest from UNC, Kansas, and Kentucky, prompted Lewis to reevaluate.
UNC’s full-court press over the past month — including in-home visits, calls from Tar Heel greats, and multiple campus trips — helped tip the scales.
Impact on UNC’s 2025 Class
With the addition of Lewis, North Carolina’s 2025 recruiting class jumps into top-five territory nationally. He joins a group already loaded with talent, including 5-star wing Elijah Foster and high-scoring guard KJ Rawlins. The class blends size, shooting, and athleticism — and now boasts a true anchor in the paint.
What This Means Moving Forward
The commitment of Nyk Lewis not only bolsters UNC’s frontcourt depth for years to come but also sends a clear message: the Tar Heels are back to being a recruiting powerhouse.
Hubert Davis continues to show that he can not only compete with but out-recruit blue bloods and new-era powerhouses alike. With Lewis in the fold, North Carolina has taken another significant step toward restoring its place at the top of the college basketball hierarchy.
The Dean Dome faithful can now look forward to a towering presence dominating the paint — and possibly, another banner in the near future.
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Follow @UNC_Basketball for more updates on the Tar Heels’ 2025 recruiting class and offseason developments.
