The UNC basketball program is set to lose at least one of its top backcourt players in the spring, as standout graduate RJ Davis will be finishing his eligibility this season. Additionally, some 2025 mock drafts project freshman guard Ian Jackson as a potential one-and-done first-round pick, while sophomore point guard Elliot Cadeau could significantly improve his NBA prospects as a returning starter.
This means there will be significant playing time available in the UNC backcourt for the 2025-26 season.
Consequently, it’s no surprise that head coach Hubert Davis and his team have been actively recruiting top perimeter talent for 2025.
Their efforts resulted in another commitment on Saturday, as four-star guard Isaiah Denis from Davidson Day School (N.C.) pledged to UNC, following the recent commitment of four-star Derek Dixon from Gonzaga College High School (D.C.).
Scouting Isaiah Denis:
▪️skilled, scoring guard
▪️makes tough shots (92nd percentile)
▪️multi-level scoring threat
▪️flashes of playmaking for others
▪️untapped upside as he gets stronger📺 https://t.co/OB2XQBOtG7 pic.twitter.com/fhyTh9yoVd
— Adam Finkelstein (@AdamFinkelstein) November 2, 2024
Dixon, who is 6-foot-3 and weighs 190 pounds, expressed confidence in their ability to play together, stating he has no concerns about fitting in with the 6-foot-5, 175-pound Denis, who is also a combo guard. He believes their combined versatility will create a perfect match for the Tar Heels.
Sharpshooter Derek Dixon has committed to North Carolina 🔥 Hubert Davis and the Tar Heels with a STEAL early in this recruiting cycle @DerekDixon03 pic.twitter.com/9sK7fmJHMR
— League Ready (@LeagueRDY) September 27, 2024
“I think we’re both versatile guards who can play with or without the ball, score at all three levels, and are unselfish,” Dixon remarked. “So, I think it will be a great fit.”
Dixon is ranked No. 46 overall and No. 6 among combo guards in the 247Sports 2025 Composite rankings, while Denis is ranked No. 62 overall and No. 9 at his position.
Together, they form the 16th-ranked recruiting class in the nation, according to 247Sports, and are positioned fifth in the ACC.
