UNC’s Drake Powell Declares for 2025 NBA Draft

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Freshman wing Drake Powell announced on Wednesday that he is declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft. Powell shared the news on his Instagram, expressing gratitude for the support from the Tar Heel community.

“Tar Heel Nation, thank you for embracing and supporting me through the highs and lows of the past season,” Powell stated. “This decision was nowhere near easy, but with the support and guidance of my family and coaches, I will be entering my name into the 2025 NBA Draft.”

Since the end of Carolina’s season, Powell has been participating in workouts organized by his agency, CAA Sports. ESPN‘s latest mock draft projects Powell as the first pick of the second round, at No. 31 overall. The early entry deadline for the draft is April 26, with the NCAA withdrawal deadline set for May 28.

During his freshman season, Powell averaged 7.4 points and 3.4 rebounds per game for North Carolina, appearing in all 37 games and starting 24 of them. He shot 48.3% from the field and ranked third on the team with a three-point shooting percentage of 37.9%. Coach Hubert Davis adjusted Powell’s position during the season, allowing him to play on the wing in the final 11 games.

“Drake is incredible,” said teammate Seth Trimble. “He’s just able to make reads and make plays. There’s a reason he was on the ball during key moments.” In North Carolina’s last game, Powell recorded eight points and seven rebounds.

A former five-star recruit from Pittsboro, North Carolina, Powell is among the highest-rated players recruited under Davis. His performance has drawn attention, with CBS Sports highlighting his defensive skills and three-point shooting ability.

If Powell remains in the draft, it may leave North Carolina in need of replacements for all five of its starters from the season’s final game. The Tar Heels have seen several players enter the transfer portal, including Elliot Cadeau and Ven-Allen Lubin. However, they have also secured commitments from new players including Jonathan Powell and Henri Veesaar.

North Carolina concluded the season with a record of 23-14 and reached the NCAA Tournament before losing to Ole Miss. As the program moves forward, they will need to adapt to transitioning away from key players like Powell.