All Tar Heels

Where UNC Basketball Ranks in All-Time McDonald's All-Americans

UNC basketball is set to welcome its 81st and 82nd McDonald's All-American talents next season.

Matt Giles

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This week, two of the three 2024 UNC basketball signees landed roster spots for the prestigious McDonald's All-American Game, slated for April 2 in Houston. Our Saviour Lutheran (N.Y.) five-star guard Ian Jackson and Northwood (N.C.) five-star forward Drake Powell, both on the East team, bring the Tar Heels' all-time number to 82.

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They are the first UNC prizes to earn the distinction since five did so in 2020. That said, a 2021 McDonald's All-American, UNC junior forward Harrison Ingram, now counts after transferring from Stanford.

The all-time count ranks No. 2, trailing only the 92 "Burger Boys" who have signed with archrival Duke since the honor's inception in 1977.

Although Kentucky has been catching up to UNC's tally in recent years, the Wildcats remain one shy of the Tar Heels. They boast 30 more than No. 4 on the list in fellow blueblood Kansas (51).

Granted, it's worth noting that Kentucky still has a chance to pull even with UNC in all-time McDonald's All-Americans this year, as John Calipari and his staff in Lexington remain in contention for one of the three uncommitted selections between the two rosters in Overtime Elite (Ga.) five-star forward Karter Knox.

For now, the two apiece for UNC, Duke, and Kentucky tie Alabama and Rutgers for the most this go-round.

UNC basketball's other 2024 signee, Link Academy (Mo.) four-star center James Brown, looked like a potential McDonald's All-American honoree when he committed to the Tar Heels last January. At the time, he ranked No. 31 overall on the 247Sports 2024 Composite. But he has since fallen to No. 69.

Ian Jackson and Drake Powell currently rank No. 9 and No. 10, respectively.

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Stay tuned to All Tar Heels on SI.com for more UNC basketball 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.

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