UNC Just Landed a Sharpshooter — But Is He the One Thing Hubert Davis’ Offense Has Been Missing All Along?
Chapel Hill, NC — The University of North Carolina may have just pulled off one of the most quietly impactful transfers of the offseason — and if early signs hold true, Hubert Davis might finally have the missing piece to elevate his offense back to elite status.
Former West Virginia standout Jonathan Powell, a 6-foot-6 guard known for his fluid shooting stroke and unshakable confidence beyond the arc, officially announced his commitment to the Tar Heels last week. After an eye-catching freshman campaign in Morgantown where he averaged 10.7 points per game and shot 41.8% from three-point range, Powell now brings his long-range arsenal to a program hungry for perimeter firepower.
A Perfect Fit for Chapel Hill?
The Tar Heels, despite their rich basketball pedigree and regular-season success, have lacked consistent three-point shooting in recent years — a problem that’s haunted them in late-tournament play and high-pressure ACC matchups. While RJ Davis and Cormac Ryan provided occasional sparks last season, Hubert Davis’ system has been crying out for a deadeye shooter who can space the floor and stretch defenses.
Enter Powell.
“He’s a sniper — plain and simple,” said Isaac Schade, UNC beat analyst. “He doesn’t need much space to get his shot off, and what makes him different is how well he moves without the ball. UNC hasn’t had that kind of off-ball threat since maybe Wayne Ellington.”
More Than Just a Shooter
Though Powell is known for his perimeter game, his freshman tape reveals a more complete player. He showed flashes of tough on-ball defense, improved shot selection under pressure, and even a willingness to attack the rim when defenders overplayed him outside.
In transition-heavy offenses like UNC’s, that versatility could be the difference between being a role player and a game-changer.
“He’s not just a catch-and-shoot guy,” said Riley Davis of Heat Check CBB. “Powell knows how to read the floor. He’ll make the extra pass, he’ll hit mid-range pull-ups, and he isn’t afraid to guard. He’s exactly what this team needs to take pressure off RJ [Davis] and allow the offense to open up.”
The Bigger Picture: A Championship Window?
Hubert Davis has made no secret about his desire to build a team that can return to the Final Four — and this offseason’s moves suggest he’s going all in. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising transfers, the 2025-26 UNC roster is shaping up to be both balanced and dangerous.
But Powell could be the X-factor.
If he can replicate or even improve on his WVU numbers — and if he adjusts quickly to the intensity of ACC play — Powell might do more than just fill a need. He could become the piece that brings everything together.
What Comes Next
As UNC prepares for preseason workouts, all eyes will be on how Powell integrates with his new teammates and finds his rhythm in a system that demands pace, spacing, and constant movement. There are no guarantees in college basketball — but this move already feels like one of the most under-the-radar steals of the transfer season.
And if Powell lives up to the hype?
Don’t be surprised if UNC is back in the national title conversation…with a sharpshooter leading the charge.
