CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WNCN) – North Carolina freshman standout Drake Powell has unveiled the plans for the future of his basketball career.
Powell is declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft following just one year in Chapel Hill, he announced through social media on Wednesday.
“Tar Heel Nation, thank you for embracing and supporting me through the highs and lows of the past season,” Powell said in a statement. “I have learned so much both on and off the court. I was born and bred a Tar Heel, and to have the opportunity to put on that uniform, run through that tunnel, and compete for the University that I love is a feeling that is unmatched and I’ll never take that for granted.
“To my teammates and brothers, I just want to say thank you for all the amazing memories we’ve made together during our journey. I’ll hold onto these moments forever.
“However, competing at the highest level has always been the ultimate goal. This decision was nowhere near easy, but with the support and guidance of my family and coaches, I will be entering my name into the 2025 NBA Draft.”
Powell could potentially return to the college ranks after testing the NBA waters, but in order to do so, he must withdraw his name from the draft by May 28.
In what appears to be his lone college season, the 6-foot-6 wing averaged 7.4 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game while shooting 48.3% from the field and 37.9% from behind the 3-point line. He started on 24 occasions for the Tar Heels, including the final 11 games of the season.
Quickly establishing himself as one of the best two-way players on the Tar Heels’ roster, Powell’s departure leaves a massive hole to fill for Hubert Davis and his coaching staff. UNC will now have to replace seven of its top eight scorers from this past season.
The Pittsboro native is currently projected to be a mid-to-late first-round or early second-round selection in the upcoming draft.