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Tar Heels Targeting Elite 2026 Wing Prospects to Bolster Future
1 Aug
Summary
- North Carolina's 2026 recruiting class shaping up to be promising
- Tar Heels targeting versatile wing players who can make immediate impact
- Several top-ranked prospects, including Adams, Ariza, and Thompson, considering UNC
As of August 1st, 2025, the North Carolina Tar Heels are gearing up for a potentially transformative 2026 recruiting cycle. Head coach Hubert Davis and his staff have set their sights on a talented group of wing prospects who could make an immediate impact on the team.
One of the standout players in the class is four-star prospect Marcus Adams, who has seen his recruitment surge this summer following a strong showing on the Nike EYBL circuit. Ranked 40th nationally, Adams leads the EYBL in rebounding and is fourth in scoring, showcasing his versatility and potential.
Another highly sought-after target is Tajh Ariza, the son of former NBA player Trevor Ariza. Ranked 8th nationally and the 2nd-best small forward, Ariza has developed a strong personal relationship with Coach Davis, who coached him at a USA Basketball minicamp. This connection could give the Tar Heels an edge in landing the talented wing.
Additionally, five-star forward Anthony Thompson, the 9th-ranked player in the 2026 class, has included North Carolina in his top seven schools. Thompson's combination of size, skill, and athleticism make him a prime target for the Tar Heels as they look to bolster their frontcourt.
With several players expected to depart the program in the coming years, these wing prospects could become key pieces in North Carolina's future. The Tar Heels will need to fend off stiff competition from the likes of Kentucky, Alabama, and other top programs, but the potential payoff of landing this talented group could be significant for the storied program.
