All Tar Heels

Surging UNC Basketball Recruit Sees More Tobacco Road Interest

Since UNC basketball entered the Anthony Thompson sweepstakes, the five-star has continued to climb.

Matt Giles

UNC basketball
UNC basketball / Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
In this story:

UNC basketball head coach Hubert Davis extended an offer to Western Reserve Academy (Ohio) forward Anthony Thompson back in early January. But the Tar Heels aren't alone on Tobacco Road in having checked out the 6-foot-8, 185-pound five-star lefty in person this season.

ALSO READ: Five-Star Lands UNC Offer Ahead of Upcoming Kansas Visit

His list of visitors as a junior also includes Duke, NC State, Purdue, Louisville, Kentucky, BYU, Michigan, Michigan State, Missouri, Ohio State, Texas, UCLA, Pitt, Cincinnati, Indiana, Penn State, Xavier, Stanford, and Notre Dame, per his chat with On3's Joe Tipton this week.

Enjoying a 10-spot jump since September, Thompson now checks in at No. 12 overall, No. 3 among small forwards, and No. 1 in Ohio on the 247Sports 2026 Composite. He holds offers from over 30 schools.

Thompson, averaging 20.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, and 1.3 steals this season, hasn't announced finalists or any official visits.

"I want to play for a person I connect with," he told Tipton, "a coach on the court, but also off the court. I feel like that is the best way to succeed on the court is to play for someone you really connect with and really get to know them."

ALSO READ: History Says Stay Optimistic About Current Tar Heel Season

Stay tuned to North Carolina Tar Heels On SI for more UNC basketball recruiting news.

Published
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.

Home/Basketball