“It Wasn’t Just an Offer”: Tajh Ariza Reveals the Unexpected Way Hubert Davis Made UNC Stand Out at USA Camp
In a recruiting world often driven by flashy offers and highlight reels, five-star guard Tajh Ariza is showing that what really makes an impression is something deeper — authentic coaching, real connection, and meaningful mentorship.
Speaking on his recent North Carolina Tar Heels scholarship offer, Ariza shared how his experience with Coach Hubert Davis during the USA Basketball Men’s U18 National Team Training Camp played a pivotal role in opening the door to Chapel Hill — even before any official offer was extended.
“It happened at USA [Camp],” Ariza explained. “I didn’t get offered at USA, but [Hubert Davis] was there. He was one of the coaches. He actually coached me a couple of games. He was very good, a cool person, a great person. He definitely coached me up a couple of times.”
What makes the interaction especially unique is that Davis wasn’t wearing his recruiting hat — at least not formally. He was there to coach, instruct, and guide some of the top young basketball talent in the country. But that environment provided the perfect lens for Ariza to see Davis in action — not as a recruiter, but as a teacher of the game and mentor to players.
“He didn’t treat it like a recruiting trip,” Ariza added. “He coached me hard, gave me feedback, and showed real care for how I was playing — and improving.”
The relationship between Ariza and UNC may also have roots in personal familiarity. While the talented combo guard currently resides in California, he previously lived in Pinehurst, North Carolina, giving him a unique connection to the Tar Heel State.
“I used to live in North Carolina — in Pinehurst,” Ariza said. “So that made it feel a little closer to home in a way. UNC is a big deal where I’m from, and to get an offer from there after working with Coach Davis made it feel special.”
Ariza, who has been climbing the ranks as one of the most electrifying guards in the 2026 class, is known for his explosive athleticism, playmaking vision, and ability to thrive under pressure. At 6-foot-5, with a versatile offensive game and strong defensive instincts, he’s being heavily pursued by blue blood programs across the country.
But the way Ariza describes his interactions with Coach Davis and the Carolina program — it’s clear that this isn’t just another name on his list.
“Coach Davis is just different. You can tell he really wants to build you up, not just as a player, but as a man.”
As the recruiting battle for Ariza heats up, Carolina fans can be encouraged by the connection already formed. Offers are easy to hand out — but trust, chemistry, and vision for development? That’s what leaves a lasting impression. And for Ariza, UNC seems to have made theirs at just the right time.
