In a press conference that was supposed to be a routine offseason update, UNC head coach Hubert Davis took a firm and unapologetic stance when pressed about speculation surrounding the possible addition of a “general manager”-style role to the basketball program — and made it clear he’s not here for complacency or distractions.
When asked directly whether UNC is considering hiring a GM to oversee recruiting, NIL negotiations, and roster construction — as several powerhouse programs have already done — Davis didn’t hold back.
“I don’t need someone else to run my team,” he said. “We’ve built this roster with purpose, not panic. I know what this team needs, and we’re not outsourcing leadership.”
The response drew immediate attention, especially in light of growing trends across college basketball where programs are leaning on NBA-style front office roles to handle the increasingly complex demands of player movement, NIL deals, and recruiting logistics.
Davis acknowledged the game has changed but was quick to clarify that change doesn’t mean surrendering control.
“This is North Carolina. We’re not copying what others are doing just because it’s the trend. We lead. We don’t chase,” Davis said. “And anyone who thinks we’re being passive during this roster overhaul hasn’t been paying attention.”
Indeed, UNC has undergone significant changes this offseason, with several key departures and a wave of new talent — both freshmen and transfers — entering the fold. Some critics have questioned whether UNC is adapting fast enough in the chaotic world of the transfer portal and NIL-fueled recruiting, but Davis seemed unfazed by the noise.
Behind the scenes, sources say Davis has taken a much more hands-on approach this summer, holding longer meetings with players, staff, and even NIL collectives. While he hasn’t ruled out support roles to help manage the new era of college hoops, his message is clear: he’s still in the driver’s seat.
With expectations rising and the pressure to return UNC to national title contention building, Davis’s defiant tone is being seen by some as a turning point in his leadership.
“There’s no complacency here,” he concluded. “We’re building something real — and we’re doing it the Carolina way.”
Whether that way is enough in today’s high-stakes college basketball world remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Hubert Davis isn’t backing down.
