The 2025-26 UNC basketball roster is largely shaped by offseason additions, with 11 new players between the transfer portal and high school recruiting.
One of those 11 expected to make a big impact is Jonathan Powell, the West Virginia transfer who, through 10 games, is North Carolina’s sixth man. Powell brings a coveted combination of strong defense and a scoring punch, while providing the ability to play multiple positions at 6’6″.
Saturday was the breakout game Powell so long coveted as a Tar Heel, tying his career-high with 17 points in an 80-62 win. Powell drained six of his nine shot attempts, including three perimeter makes, plus two free throws.
Powell spoke on his big game after Saturday’s win, pointing to his constant work between games and always ready to be called upon.
“If it’s an off day, good day, I know the work that I put in every day after practice, before practice, late at night,” Powell said. “So really just coming (into games) with the same mindset, confidence each game of staying ready, go out there and play my game. I’m going to do whatever it takes to help my team win. I’m glad I was able to help them today.”
Powell was one of four Tar Heels scoring in double-figures, joining Caleb Wilson (20 points), Luka Bogavac (15) and Henri Veesaar (14). Seth Trimble is expected back from injury soon – and will likely take minutes from Powell – but the latter proved his case for starts going forward.
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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: UNC’s Jonathan Powell points to constant work for breakout on Saturday
