More Encouraging News in UNC Basketball Pursuit of Nearby Star

The UNC basketball and football recruiting teams hope to share a big win on the 2026 trail.
UNC basketball mascot Rameses
UNC basketball mascot Rameses / Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Reidsville High School (N.C.) enjoys a 6-foot-7, 245-pound athlete who shatters backboards on the hardwood and hauls in touchdowns galore on the gridiron. That sensation, Kendre' Harrison, has been adamant about his desire to play both sports in college. And he reported an offer from UNC basketball head coach Hubert Davis a month ago, complementing the one he's long held from UNC football head coach Mack Brown.

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As of Monday night, Kendre' Harrison, whose powerful frame, dual-sport stardom, and interest in the Tar Heels instantly bring to mind UNC legend Julius Peppers, has the school in Chapel Hill among his top six.

It's worth noting that UNC is now the only in-state option he's considering.

Harrison's other finalists include two more from the ACC, though, in Florida State and Miami, along with Oregon, Tennessee, and Penn State.

Although he's traveled to Chapel Hill over a dozen times, including his attendance at a few basketball games in the Dean E. Smith Center this past season, all of those visits with the Tar Heels have pretty much centered on his football recruitment. But that should soon change in light of Harrison's recent offer from Davis & Co., as he's one of only three recruits on the 2026 UNC basketball recruiting wishlist at this early juncture in the cycle.

He ranks No. 6 overall and No. 1 among tight ends on the 247Sports 2026 Composite for football, not too much higher than Harrison's No. 33 composite ranking, No. 5 among power forwards, as a basketball prospect in the class.

More UNC Basketball and Football News


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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.