UNC Basketball: 2023-24 season preview and outlook for the Tar Heels

Key reserves for UNC Basketball

Guard – Seth Trimble (Sophomore)

While fellow sophomore D’Marco Dunn opted to leave via the transfer portal, Seth Trimble stuck around, and the sophomore could be poised to take a leap in his second year. Trimble struggled offensively in spot minutes behind RJ Davis and Caleb Love, but his defense was well beyond what one would expect of a freshman. If he improves his shot and decision-making with the ball, Trimble could improve upon the 9+ minutes per game he played last year.

Guard – Paxson Wojcik (Grad Senior)

The Tar Heels increased their backcourt depth with the addition of Brown transfer Paxton Wojcik. The 6’5″ guard set career highs across the board last year, averaging 14.9 points, 7.2 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.3 steals in nearly 35 minutes per game. He was even better at the end of the season, scoring 20 points or more in Brown’s final three games. Wojcik could help take pressure off RJ Davis, whose 35 minutes per game were seventh in the ACC.

Forward – Zayden High (Freshman)

With the return of Armando Bacot and the addition of Jae’Lyn Withers and James Okonkwo, Zayden High could have difficulty cracking the rotation his freshman year, but there’s no denying he has the talent to contribute if given a chance. High possesses a quality jump shot and good athleticism, and he’s the kind of big man that Carolina has traditionally loved to get out in transition.

Forward – Jae’Lyn Withers (Grad Senior)

There aren’t very many positives that came from Louisville’s disastrous 2022-23 season, but Jae’Lyn Withers is one of them. The stretch forward shot 41.7% from three for the Cardinals, and he figures to split time early on with fellow transfer Cormac Ryan. Both players are already experienced playing in the ACC, so the move to Chapel Hill shouldn’t take much adjustment.

Forward/Center- Jalen Washington (Sophomore)

Carolina fans loved what they saw in limited minutes from Jalen Washington last year. The 6’10” big man could use some polish on his defensive positioning and instincts, but his offensive game is already advanced. Washington showed off a variety of low post moves and the ability to knock down mid-range jumpers, and with Pete Nance gone, he now has the opportunity to seize more minutes.

Center – James Okonkwo (Junior)

The final piece of the 2023-24 UNC roster puzzle, James Okonkwo transferred from West Virginia in July in the wake of Bob Huggins’ resignation. The big man played just 11 minutes per game for the Mountaineers, but he could provide valuable depth behind Armando Bacot, who has dealt with injuries the past two years.