After a first-round exit in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, North Carolina and head coach Hubert Davis experienced significant roster turnover.
RJ Davis wrapped up his fifth and final season as he pursued a professional career. Elliot Cadeau entered the transfer portal and committed to Michigan, while standout freshman Drake Powell declared for the NBA Draft, initially keeping his college eligibility intact.
But following an impressive showing at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, Powell has decided to fully commit to the professional path. The 6-foot-6 guard from Pittsboro, NC, officially announced on Thursday that he will remain in the draft and not return to Chapel Hill.
“I’m all-in on the draft,” Powell said. “The door is closed. Coach Davis has been incredibly supportive throughout the process. I’ve known him a long time, and he’s just happy for me.”
In his only season with the Tar Heels, Drake Powell started 24 of 37 games, averaging 7.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 25.5 minutes per game. Despite the playing time, he felt he didn’t get the chance to fully display his skill set at North Carolina.
“I still believe I’m the same two-way player I was coming into college,” Powell said. “I don’t think I was able to fully show that at UNC, but the potential is there. I’m eager to keep learning and developing.”
Throughout his draft journey, Powell has received steady support from Hubert Davis and the UNC program. After his announcement to remain in the NBA Draft, Carolina Basketball shared a message on social media Friday recognizing his strong combine performance.
“On the rise 📈,” the program posted on X.
On the rise 📈 pic.twitter.com/XctFk9SXzk
— Carolina Basketball (@UNC_Basketball) May 16, 2025
Powell’s strong showing at the NBA Draft Combine has boosted him into the conversation as a potential first-round pick. However, most 2025 mock drafts still project him in the early second round. ESPN currently has him slotted at No. 32 overall to the Boston Celtics.
The first round of the 2025 NBA Draft is set for June 25 in Brooklyn, New York, with the second round scheduled for the following day.
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