The North Carolina Tar Heels have long been a powerhouse in college basketball, and their frontcourt depth has often been a key factor in their success. As we look ahead to the 2025–2026 season, one of the critical questions surrounding Hubert Davis’ squad is who will emerge as the primary backup big men behind the team’s likely starting center. With the departure of key players and the arrival of new talent, the Tar Heels’ frontcourt rotation will be a fascinating storyline to follow.Before diving into the backup options, it’s important to establish who will likely hold down the starting center role. Assuming no major roster changes, the Tar Heels will lean on a seasoned big man—either a returning veteran or a highly touted recruit—to anchor the paint. This player will command the bulk of the minutes, but in modern college basketball, depth is essential. Foul trouble, matchups, and fatigue all necessitate reliable backups who can step in without a significant drop-off in production.Several players will be in contention for the role of backup big man in 2025–2026. Let’s break down the most likely candidates:If Jalen Washington remains with the program, he could be the most experienced option off the bench. Washington has shown flashes of his potential, with a soft touch around the rim and the ability to stretch the floor. His development over the past seasons will be crucial—if he adds strength and improves his defensive positioning, he could earn 15–20 minutes per game as the primary backup. His familiarity with the system and chemistry with the guards would make him a reliable option.UNC is always in the mix for elite big men, and the 2025 recruiting class could bring in a talented freshman ready to contribute immediately. If the Tar Heels land a top-50 center prospect, he could push for backup minutes right away. The key for any freshman big will be adapting to the physicality of college basketball. If he can hold his own defensively and rebound at a high level, he’ll earn playing time, even if his offensive game is still developing.In today’s college basketball landscape, the transfer portal is a game-changer. UNC could look to add an experienced big man from another program to bolster their depth. A grad transfer or a sophomore/junior with proven production could step in and provide immediate relief. The ideal candidate would be a defensive-minded big who can rebound and protect the rim, allowing the starter to rest without sacrificing too much on that end of the floor.If Zayden High remains in the program, he could be a long-term project who starts to see more minutes in 2025–2026. High has the size and athleticism to be effective, but his role will depend on how much he improves his footwork, strength, and basketball IQ. If he makes a leap, he could be a valuable rotational piece. Otherwise, he may remain a depth option used in specific matchups.Several factors will influence who earns the majority of the backup minutes:Defensive Reliability:** Hubert Davis values big men who can defend without fouling, rebound consistently, and switch in pick-and-roll situations when needed. The backup who excels in these areas will have a leg up.
Offensive Efficiency:** While defense is paramount, the backup big must also be able to finish around the rim, set solid screens, and potentially stretch the floor if they have a mid-range or three-point shot.
Consistency in Practice:** Davis has shown he rewards players who perform well in practice. Whoever demonstrates the most growth and reliability in workouts will earn his trust.
Matchup Flexibility:** Some games may require a more physical presence, while others may call for a quicker, more mobile big. The Tar Heels may rotate backups based on the opponent.Assuming no major roster changes, here’s how the backup big man minutes could shake out:Primary Backup (15–18 mpg):** A returning player like Washington or a transfer with experience.
-Secondary Backup (8–12 mpg):** A freshman or developmental player like High, used in spot minutes or against certain opponents.
Emergency Depth:** A third-string big who plays only in blowouts or due to foul trouble.The backup big man role may not grab headlines, but it’s a crucial piece of any championship-caliber team. For UNC to compete at the highest level in 2025–2026, they’ll need at least one reliable reserve who can hold down the fort when the starter is out. Whether it’s a returning player stepping up, a freshman making an immediate impact, or a transfer providing stability, the Tar Heels’ frontcourt depth will be a storyline worth monitoring.
As the season approaches, keep an eye on offseason developments—portal additions, recruiting decisions, and player improvements will all shape this critical position. One thing is certain: Hubert Davis will have options, and the competition for minutes will be fierce.
