UNC Recruiting: UNC Stimulus Package
After another week of UNC sports, the Tar Heel recruits are continuing to thrive on their respective playing fields. In football with a lot of the high school seasons coming to an end, the recruits who are left are making a statement that they can compete for playing time at the next level. UNC recruits Johnathan Howard and TJ Logan stood out in particular.
Mandatory Credit: Curtis Wilson-US PRESSWIRE
Wide receiver Johnathan Howard had a huge game for his school in the third round of the GHSA A playoffs. Howard helped lead his team with 13 catches for 141 yards. At 6’4″ Howard has all of the tools to be a great receiver. I see a lot of resemblance to current Tar Heel standout Quinshad Davis. Both Howard and Quinshad are around the same height and were ranked around the same spot coming out of high school. With UNC wide reciever Erik Highsmith graduating, look for Howard to make a run for the open slot.
An even more impressive performance came from RB/ATH TJ Logan (Highlight Reel of the Week). Logan helped propel his team to a consecutive state championship in the NCHSAA 3AA playoffs. Logan set the record for most rushing yards (510) and touchdowns (8) on 28 carries. He also intercepted a pass and made six tackles (4 solo). The record was previously held by ex NC State running back TA Mclendon. I really like Logan to come in and make an immediate impact for the Heels. With the possibility of Gio Bernard declaring for the NFL, Logan could have a shot to run the ball for the Heels alongside Romar Morris and AJ Blue. Look for the Heels to continue to succeed on the offensive end for the next couple of season.
On the hardwood, Roy Williams has been just as busy watching recruits to help continue the Carolina winning tradition. At the beginning of 2013 look for star recruits Andrew Wiggins and Joel Berry to make their way to Chapel Hill for official visits. Berry recently said he wants to visit when the season slows down in late January or early February. Berry has a lot of resemblance to Ty Lawson (minus the speed) at the point guard position. He is able to get to the basket and can knock down shots from anywhere on the court.
Andrew Wiggins was recently interviewed about possible visits Wiggins had lots of good things to say about UNC. “UNC is so much like Kentucky,” he said. “They are saying they want me, they are interested in me. That’s such a big-time school. Legends played there like Michael Jordan.” Wiggins plans to visit there later. “In the spring when it gets a little bit warmer,” he said. Wiggins is looking to get down to Chapel Hill in the spring when it’s “warmer.” I think it is funny that a Canadian who is playing in West Virginia is so opposed to a climate which he lives in the majority of the year.
Lastly, Roy and his staff made in state visits to see forwards Theo Pinson and Issac Copeland. Pinson has an offer from UNC and is an explosive player who can shoot as well as drive and dunk on anyone. I think he could be a great addition to the Heels if he doesn’t join the “package deal” with fellow recruits Tyus Jones and Jahlil Okafor. Pinson has offers from all three Carolina schools Duke, UNC, and State. I believe he will end up at one of the three. Last forward Issac Copeland had an appearance from Hubert Davis and Roy to watch him play. Listed as a 6’8 power forward, Copeland has an earlier similar game to Harrison Barnes. Copeland is a force down low blocking shots and making powerful dunks but isn’t afraid to knock a shot down from behind the arc. I look for the Heels to deliver an offer to him soon.
Highlight Reel of the Week: TJ Logan