UNC Lands Icelandic Sensation: 6’5″ SF Sigurður “Siggi” Jónasson Commits to Tar Heels Over College Basketball Powerhouses
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — August 9, 2025 — The University of North Carolina has officially added international firepower to its 2025 recruiting class, securing a commitment from 6’5″ Icelandic small forward Sigurður “Siggi” Jónasson, a dynamic wing who has turned heads across Europe and North America.
Jónasson, a former standout at the C.A.T. Player Academy in Barcelona, Spain, announced his decision Friday morning via a bilingual video posted to Instagram, draped in UNC blue and white with a caption that read simply: “Carolina Bound. Let’s make history. #GoHeels”
The Reykjavik native chose the Tar Heels over fellow finalists Michigan State, Kansas, and bitter in-state rival NC State, capping off a months-long recruitment that saw blue blood programs jockeying for the signature of one of Europe’s most skilled and poised teenage prospects.
Who is Siggi Jónasson?
At 6’5″ with a 6’9″ wingspan and elite-level court IQ, Jónasson has drawn comparisons to a young Manu Ginóbili for his deceptive quickness, creative playmaking, and fearlessness in the lane. He averaged 18.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists last season for C.A.T. Player Academy, competing in the European U19 Champions League circuit.
A versatile scorer and instinctive defender, Jónasson earned MVP honors at the FIBA U18 Nordic Championships, leading Iceland to a historic runner-up finish and outplaying several top-ranked Scandinavian prospects.
He becomes the first Icelandic player in UNC men’s basketball history, and the second Nordic-born athlete to ever commit to the Tar Heels after Finnish guard Sasu Salin briefly trained with the team in a non-scholarship role in the early 2010s.
A Massive Win for Hubert Davis and UNC
Jónasson’s commitment represents a significant recruiting victory for head coach Hubert Davis, who personally traveled to Spain and Reykjavik twice in the last six months to solidify the relationship. UNC’s pitch focused on tradition, elite development, and the program’s proven ability to prepare international players for the NBA.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Siggi to Chapel Hill,” Davis said in a university-issued statement. “He’s not only a gifted athlete but also a smart, tough competitor who embodies the values of our program. Our fans are going to love his energy, his unselfishness, and his winning mentality.”
According to 247Sports Composite Rankings (Fictional), Jónasson is listed as the No. 3 international prospect and No. 29 overall recruit in the Class of 2025.
What This Means for the Tar Heels
With Jónasson’s commitment, UNC adds a critical piece to a 2025 class already ranked in the top five nationally. His arrival fills an immediate need on the wing following the anticipated departure of junior standout Trey Miller to the NBA Draft.
Jónasson is expected to compete for minutes right away, potentially slotting into a starting small forward role by midseason. His shooting range, defensive versatility, and ability to create off the dribble could make him an x-factor in UNC’s push for a deep March Madness run.
Analysts also believe the signing could open doors for future European talent, as UNC looks to expand its global recruiting footprint.
What’s Next for Jónasson
Before landing in Chapel Hill, Jónasson will represent Iceland in the FIBA U20 European Championships this fall, where scouts from multiple NBA teams are expected to attend.
He will enroll early in January 2026 and be eligible to practice with the team for the second half of the season, preserving his full four years of eligibility.
Final Thought:
For a program steeped in legacy, the Tar Heels have just added a new chapter to their international narrative — one written in Icelandic ice and Carolina blue. And with Siggi Jónasson in the fold, the future just got a lot colder — and a lot more dangerous — for UNC’s opponents.
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