UNC basketball player interviews after Tar Heels vs NC State
Following UNC basketball’s win vs. N.C. State, the Tar Heels discussed how they got it done against the Wolfpack.
- Davis, a prolific scorer and shooter, holds multiple UNC records, including career 3-pointers and free throw percentage.
- Despite his offensive prowess, Davis’s size and defensive struggles raise concerns about his NBA prospects.
UNC basketball’s RJ Davis was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Los Angeles Lakers after the conclusion of the 2025 NBA Draft on June 26, according to multiple reports.
Davis signed a two-day deal with the Lakers, meaning he’s in line to spend most of his time in the G League.
The third-leading scorer in ACC history at 2,725 points, Davis was an All-American guard and ACC Player of the Year during his five-year run with the Tar Heels. He’s also UNC’s all-time leader in 3-pointers (358) and free-throw shooting (86.4%). Davis is the only Tar Heel with 2,500 points, 600 rebounds, 500 assists, 300 treys and 150 steals.
Davis, who didn’t miss a game in five seasons, set an all-time scoring record with 42 points at the Smith Center as a senior against Miami in 2024. He had 20 or more points in 47 games and 30-plus points in six games.
Former teammate Drake Powell was selected with the No. 22 overall pick in the 2025 draft. Powell was UNC’s first player to be selected in the first round since Day’Ron Sharpe in 2021.
Here’s what Davis could bring to the NBA.
RJ Davis positives
As the third-leading scorer in ACC history and UNC’s all-time leader in 3-pointers, Davis always found a way to get the ball in the bucket. Despite his size, Davis also showed consistent toughness as a driver and rebounder.
RJ Davis concerns
Davis fought defensively, but it was a matchup that was consistently hunted by opponents throughout his career with the Tar Heels. Those concerns would ratchet up against NBA guards. At 6-feet, 180 pounds, Davis doesn’t fit the typical mold of a pro prospect.
Final thoughts on RJ Davis’ NBA future
Davis can make money playing professional basketball, even if it’s not in the NBA. Because of his ability to create separation as a scorer, he’ll get his shot to show the league what he can do during the summer. But it’s hard to overlook the size and defensive issues as it relates to sticking in the NBA. If he can’t maintain a two-way spot in the league, there’s always the overseas option.
Rodd Baxley covers Duke, North Carolina and N.C. State for The Fayetteville Observer as part of the USA TODAY Network. Follow his ACC coverage on X/Twitter or Bluesky: @RoddBaxley. Got questions regarding those teams? Send them to rbaxley@fayobserver.com.