Rivals No. 1 Player in the Trenches Flips to UNC: Chapel Hill Lands Historic Basketball Commitment Under Hubert Davis’ Leadership
In a stunning twist that has left recruiting analysts scrambling and rival fanbases in disbelief, the nation’s No. 1-ranked “in-the-trenches” high school basketball player, 6-foot-11, 250-pound power forward-center hybrid Marcus “Tank” Ellison, has officially flipped his commitment from Michigan State to the University of North Carolina. The announcement came late Friday evening via a nationally televised segment on ESPN, where Ellison revealed a Tar Heels cap beneath his suit jacket, sending shockwaves across the college basketball world.
Ellison, a dominant force from Oak Hill Academy (VA), had been committed to Tom Izzo’s Spartans since January. Known for his rare blend of raw power, nimble footwork, and elite shot-blocking instincts, Ellison was widely projected to anchor Michigan State’s frontcourt for years. But a late full-court press from UNC head coach Hubert Davis changed everything.
“Coach Davis didn’t recruit me just as a big man. He showed me how I could evolve — become more than what people expect from someone my size,” Ellison said. “UNC isn’t just a blue blood. It’s a proving ground. I want to be the next great big who can pass, shoot, and dominate on both ends — and Coach Davis is the only one who showed me that vision.”
The decision is not just a recruiting win — it’s a seismic shift for the Tar Heels. With the departure of All-ACC bigs earlier this offseason, Ellison is expected to step into a major role immediately. Sources inside the program say he’s already been placed on a customized development track that will see him spend time training with NBA alumni and Hall of Fame strength coaches.
UNC’s basketball facilities buzzed with energy on Saturday morning, as students gathered outside the Smith Center holding signs welcoming Ellison. Social media erupted, with Tar Heel legends like Tyler Hansbrough and Antawn Jamison offering their congratulations and support.
Hubert Davis, who has now landed four top-25 recruits in the 2025 class, addressed the media briefly: “Marcus is more than a player — he’s a cultural fit. He’s fierce, driven, and unafraid of expectations. Carolina basketball is about tradition, yes, but also about growth, and I’m thrilled he’s chosen to grow with us.”
With this commitment, UNC now holds the No. 2 overall 2025 recruiting class according to Rivals, and analysts say that the Ellison flip could be the deciding factor in pushing the Tar Heels back into Final Four contention.
From overlooked high school bruiser to the face of a blue blood renaissance, Marcus “Tank” Ellison is ready to make Chapel Hill his proving ground — and he’s not just coming to play. He’s coming to dominate.
