6’7″ Guard and Big Man Recruit Picks UNC: No. 8 From Oakwood Academy in Georgia Announces Full Pledge to Chapel Hill Over Power-5 Heavyweight Programs
In a thunderous recruiting win that sent shockwaves across the college basketball landscape, the University of North Carolina has landed the commitment of 6’7″ five-star hybrid guard/forward Darius “D.J.” Ellison—ranked No. 8 nationally by 247Sports and ESPN—from Oakwood Academy in Georgia. The versatile phenom announced his decision via a nationally broadcast segment on ESPN2, choosing the Tar Heels over powerhouse programs including Kentucky, Kansas, Duke, and Michigan State.
“Carolina just felt like home,” Ellison said, draped in a Carolina blue blazer as he made his announcement. “The legacy, the coaching staff, and the player development there are unmatched. I want to win, and I want to win as a Tar Heel.”
Known for his rare ability to initiate offense like a point guard while banging in the paint like a power forward, Ellison brings a unique skill set to Hubert Davis’ program. Averaging 22.3 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 6.1 assists during his senior season at Oakwood Academy, he has earned comparisons to former UNC greats such as Theo Pinson and a young Scottie Barnes.
Recruiting insiders say Ellison’s decision may reshape the 2025 recruiting class rankings, vaulting UNC into the top 3 nationally. His commitment also fills a critical long-term need for the Tar Heels, who have focused on length, switchability, and two-way players in their recent recruiting efforts.
“He’s a game-changer,” said Tar Heel assistant coach Sean May. “He’s got that ‘Carolina DNA’—tough, selfless, skilled, and confident.”
The commitment also marks a return to UNC’s dominance in Southern recruiting territory, with Ellison becoming the highest-rated Georgia prospect to join Chapel Hill since Tony Bradley in 2016. His announcement video—featuring throwback clips of Michael Jordan, Vince Carter, and Harrison Barnes—quickly went viral, with Carolina fans flooding social media to welcome their newest star.
Already projected as a potential lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Ellison emphasized his commitment to team success over individual accolades.
“I’m coming to win banners. Simple as that.”
The 2025-26 Tar Heels just got a lot more dangerous.
