The North Carolina Tar Heels have landed a major piece for their future frontcourt, securing a commitment from highly touted Arizona native and five-star center, Jordan Whitaker. Standing at a towering 7 feet tall, Whitaker is ranked No. 27 nationally in the 2025 recruiting class and is widely regarded as one of the most dominant big men in high school basketball.
Whitaker, who played his senior season at Desert Valley Prep in Phoenix, chose UNC over offers from Arizona, UCLA, Kansas, and Kentucky. His decision gives head coach Hubert Davis and the Tar Heels their first five-star commit in the 2025 class and adds a major boost to the program’s national recruiting profile.
“I grew up watching North Carolina and dreaming of playing in the Dean Dome,” Whitaker said in his commitment announcement. “The coaching staff made me feel like family from day one, and I believe in what they’re building. I’m ready to be a part of something special.”
Known for his elite shot-blocking, soft touch around the rim, and surprising mobility for his size, Whitaker is expected to make an immediate impact in Chapel Hill. Scouts have praised his ability to alter shots, rebound in traffic, and run the floor effectively—skills that fit perfectly into UNC’s up-tempo style of play.
Coach Davis praised Whitaker’s maturity and work ethic. “Jordan is not just a big body—he’s a skilled, intelligent, and motivated player who loves to compete,” Davis said. “He fits our culture, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the Tar Heel family.”
With Whitaker on board, UNC’s 2025 class is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the nation, and expectations will be high as the Tar Heels look to return to national championship contention.
