In a move that solidifies the core of North Carolina’s basketball future, the UNC Tar Heels have officially re-signed standout guard RJ Davis to a three-year contract, naming him the team’s new on-court leader heading into the 2025–26 season.
The decision comes after months of speculation about Davis’s next move following a breakout senior campaign that saw him earn All-ACC honors and shatter multiple program records — including most three-pointers in a tournament game. Now, Davis is not only returning — he’s taking the reins.
“We’re building something special, and RJ is the centerpiece of that vision,” head coach Hubert Davis said in a press conference Tuesday morning. “He’s earned the trust of this staff, this program, and this fanbase. There’s no better person to lead this team.”
While college athletes typically operate under NIL deals and don’t sign traditional “contracts,” UNC’s announcement signals a deep, long-term investment in Davis through a combination of opportunities and a leadership development plan designed to prepare him for a future in coaching or professional play.
Davis, now entering his fifth year with the program thanks to an extra year of eligibility granted by the NCAA, expressed his excitement to return and lead a young but talented Tar Heels squad.
“I came back for one reason — to win a national championship,” Davis said. “Being named team leader is an honor, but it comes with responsibility. I’m ready to guide these guys, push them, and bring another banner to Chapel Hill.”
The re-signing is already sending ripples through college basketball. With Davis at the helm, and top recruits like Marcus Ridge and Jalen Monroe joining the roster, UNC instantly becomes a top contender for the 2026 title.
Fans and alumni flooded social media with reactions, with many calling Davis’s return “the best offseason move in college hoops.”
As summer workouts begin, one thing is clear: the Tar Heels aren’t just reloading — they’re ready to reclaim their place at the top, with RJ Davis leading the charge.
