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NBA Scouts Watching UNC Basketball Freshman Forward in Oregon

A potential UNC basketball one-and-done and a handful of Tar Heel targets have the opportunity to learn from professionals this week.

Matt Giles

UNC basketball forward Drake Powell
UNC basketball forward Drake Powell / Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports
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At this time last summer, Drake Powell was in Portland, Ore., as one of the select preps at the 2023 Nike Skills Academy. Now, the five-star McDonald's All-American out of Northwood High School (N.C.) is back at the prestigious event as a UNC basketball rookie, one of 15 collegians who received invites this year.

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Beginning on Monday and extending through Thursday, he'll participate in various workouts and drills, plus film sessions and some five-on-five action.

In addition to current and past NBA players on hand to help train the college and high school prospects, there will be loads of NBA scouts in attendance.

Powell, a 6-foot-6, 195-pound versatile wing who arrived at UNC back in May ranking No. 11 overall on the 247Sports 2024 Composite, appears at No. 19 overall on CBS Sports' latest 2025 mock draft courtesy of Kyle Boone.

On that note, should he impress folks in Oregon this week, expect an increase in one-and-done chatter regarding the 18-year-old Tar Heel — he turns 19 next month.

While at the Nike Skills Academy, chances are Drake Powell chips in with UNC basketball recruiting efforts behind the scenes.

The 22 prep invites between the 2025 and 2026 recruiting cycles include five Tar Heel targets: Holy Innocents Episcopal School (Ga.) forward Caleb Wilson, Highland School (Va.) forward Nate Ament, Overtime Elite (Ga.) guard Jasper Johnson, Notre Dame High School (Calif.) forward Tyran Stokes, and Paul VI Catholic High School (Va.) guard Jordan Smith Jr.

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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.

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