The University of North Carolina men’s basketball program is entering a new chapter—again.
Just months after falling in the Sweet 16, three of the Tar Heels’ five-star underclassmen—KJ Bradley, Malik Stokes, and Zion Hargrove—have officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, shaking up head coach Hubert Davis’ offseason plans and forcing a rapid roster recalibration.
While the departures were expected by insiders, the timing and collective impact leave a major gap in UNC’s 2025–26 outlook. The trio accounted for nearly 47% of the team’s total points last season and were widely regarded as the program’s most promising young core since the 2017 title run.
The Departures: Who’s Going Pro?
KJ Bradley (Freshman, PG): The engine of the Tar Heel offense, Bradley averaged 15.2 PPG and 6.3 APG while displaying elite court vision and quickness. Projected as a mid-to-late first-rounder.
Malik Stokes (Sophomore, SF): A high-flying wing and top perimeter defender, Stokes is expected to go in the top 20 thanks to his two-way versatility and improved three-point shooting.
Zion Hargrove (Freshman, PF): Perhaps the biggest surprise of the group, Hargrove declared after a late-season surge. Scouts love his 6’10” frame, rebounding instincts, and raw athleticism. He’s considered a second-round sleeper.
Each player thanked the UNC program in heartfelt social media posts, with Bradley writing:
> “Chapel Hill will always be home. This is not goodbye—it’s see you later.”
Hubert Davis Responds with Speed and Strategy
Head coach Hubert Davis, entering his fifth season at the helm, responded swiftly—securing two key transfers and a commitment from a top-15 high school recruit within three weeks of the draft declarations.
Jordan Watts (Transfer, G, Arizona State): A seasoned floor general known for his high IQ and clutch shooting.
Tariq Blackmon (Transfer, PF, Oklahoma): A 6’9” stretch-four who can step out and hit from deep.
Jaylen Moore (Five-Star, SG, Class of 2025): The crown jewel of the class, Moore flipped from Kansas and is expected to start Day 1.
> “We lost a lot of talent, but the culture is intact,” Davis said during a press conference. “We’re not rebuilding—we’re reloading.”
UNC’s 2025-26 Outlook
With new faces and returning veterans like Elliot Cadeau and Jalen Washington, the Tar Heels still project as a Top 25 team—but much will depend on chemistry and how quickly the newcomers gel.
Analysts believe Davis is under some pressure to deliver deeper postseason results after multiple early exits since the 2022 national championship game appearance.
> “They’ve had the talent but haven’t made another deep run,” said ESPN’s Seth Greenberg. “This year’s team has less hype but maybe more hunger.”
A Bigger Picture: The Draft Drain Dilemma
North Carolina’s situation is part of a broader trend across blue blood programs: early draft declarations are the new normal. NIL deals may keep some stars longer, but many elite players are still prioritizing the NBA pipeline.
As a result, top programs must now master roster churn—balancing high school stars, transfers, and development year after year.
UNC’s ability to adapt quickly, and attract talent on short notice, may define the program’s next era more than any one player or class.
