The Tar Heels’ Offseason Power Moves Help Them Soar in ESPN’s New Preseason Top 25 Rankings
The North Carolina Tar Heels are making waves ahead of the 2025 college basketball season, landing high in ESPN’s newly released Preseason Top 25 Rankings. After a roller-coaster 2024 campaign that saw moments of brilliance paired with inconsistency, the Tar Heels wasted no time in recalibrating their program. A series of impactful offseason moves—ranging from key player returns and blockbuster transfers to strategic coaching adjustments—have reshaped the team’s outlook and earned them national respect once again.
Key Player Retentions
One of the most crucial factors in UNC’s rise in the rankings is the return of core players who could have opted for the NBA Draft. Veteran guard RJ Davis, who had a breakout season, shocked fans and scouts by announcing his return for a final year. His leadership, scoring ability, and experience are invaluable assets to a team looking to make a serious championship run. Alongside him, big man Armando Bacot also chose to stay, providing the Tar Heels with an elite frontcourt anchor who dominates the boards and protects the rim. Their decisions not only stabilized the team but sent a clear message: UNC is going all-in this season.
Transfer Portal Victories
The Tar Heels were also highly active—and successful—in the transfer portal. Perhaps the most headline-grabbing acquisition was former five-star point guard Jeremy Fears Jr., who transferred from Michigan State. Fears brings speed, playmaking, and defensive tenacity, giving UNC a dynamic backcourt pairing alongside Davis. Additionally, the addition of sharpshooter Trey White from USC adds perimeter depth and scoring versatility. These new arrivals plug previous gaps in the lineup and allow Coach Hubert Davis more flexibility in his rotations.
Freshman Class Firepower
In addition to seasoned talent, North Carolina boasts one of the top recruiting classes in the nation. Led by five-star forward Liam McNeeley and four-star guard Jayden Harris, the incoming freshmen bring a mix of size, athleticism, and skill that complements the veteran core. McNeeley’s polished offensive game and high basketball IQ could make him an instant contributor, while Harris’s explosive first step adds a new layer to UNC’s backcourt.
Coaching and Culture Shift
Head coach Hubert Davis has also made subtle but impactful adjustments to his coaching staff and team culture. Emphasizing defensive intensity and faster-paced offense in offseason workouts, Davis appears to be molding a more aggressive, modern brand of Tar Heel basketball. The results were evident during summer scrimmages and international exhibition play, where the team showed improved chemistry and execution.
Climbing the Rankings
With a perfect blend of returning stars, elite recruits, and savvy transfers, North Carolina has surged into the Top 10 of ESPN’s Preseason Top 25 Rankings. Analysts praise the team’s depth, leadership, and potential for growth. Many now consider the Tar Heels legitimate Final Four contenders.
If these offseason moves translate into on-court success, Chapel Hill could be in for a season to remember. The Tar Heels aren’t just aiming to bounce back—they’re gunning for banner number seven.
