High Hopes and Pressure Mark the Start of Tar Heels Era

The 2025-26 season marks a new beginning for North Carolina basketball. After several key departures, head coach Hubert Davis enters the year with one of the youngest rosters of his tenure.

The Tar Heels will rely heavily on Seth Trimble, now the clear veteran leader. Trimble’s athleticism, on-ball defense, and expanding offensive game make him the cornerstone of a team full of new faces. Around him, Davis has assembled a roster loaded with talent but short on experience, creating both excitement and pressure in Chapel Hill.

Caleb Wilson Headlines a Star-Studded Recruiting Class

Five-star forward Caleb Wilson arrives as the centerpiece of UNC’s top-five national recruiting class. At 6-foot-10, Wilson blends size, skill, and defensive instincts rarely seen in a freshman. He has already drawn attention at ACC Tipoff for his maturity and understanding of the game.

Wilson credits assistant coach Sean May for helping him polish his post moves and rebounding technique. “Coach May pushes me every day,” Wilson said earlier this fall. “He’s teaching me the details of positioning and how to use my length to make an impact.”

Henri Veesaar Brings Experience and Length

Joining Wilson in the frontcourt is Henri Veesaar, the 7-foot transfer from Arizona. A native of Estonia, Veesaar adds rim protection, mobility, and perimeter touch. His combination of size and experience gives North Carolina an anchor on both ends of the floor.

Veesaar’s chemistry with Wilson has already become a talking point within the program. Their ability to play high-low sets and switch defensively provides Davis with the kind of versatility modern college basketball demands.

Depth Built Around Fresh Talent

Beyond Wilson and Veesaar, the freshman class includes Derek Dixon, Kyan Evans, and James Brown, all of whom are expected to see early action. Dixon brings scoring ability from the wing, Evans provides quickness and playmaking at point guard, and Brown adds toughness inside.

Zayden High, now a sophomore, also returns after a developmental freshman campaign. His improved shooting and rebounding give Davis another rotation piece who understands the system.

Trimble, the lone upper-classman starter, has embraced his leadership role. His defensive consistency and willingness to mentor younger teammates have been vital during preseason workouts.

Hubert Davis Faces Expectations and Opportunity

Entering his fourth season, Davis has guided North Carolina through transition and high expectations. The 2025-26 team may be young, but its ceiling is high. Davis has emphasized defensive identity and ball movement as key points of focus throughout the offseason.