UNC Basketball: Five bold predictions for the 2018-19 season

Luke Maye and Kenny Williams will put together All-American seasons

Luke Maye and Kenny Williams both enjoyed successful junior campaigns in 2017-18, and each will continue to improve on that success this season. As seniors, Maye and Williams will embrace the role of leaders, and it will bring the best out of them.

While going through the NBA draft process last Spring, Maye received valuable feedback and advice from pro scouts. This advice paid major dividends for former Tar Heel Justin Jackson, who worked his way into becoming a lottery pick a year after going through the NBA draft process and returning to school.

This experience will have a similar impact on Maye, who will have a great season. The Huntersville native should also be able to see more time at his true position (the four) than he did last season due to the expected development of sophomore bigs Sterling Manley and Garrison Brooks.

Williams was a big part of UNC’s offense last season, averaging 11.4 PPG while shooting 40% from three. In 2018-19, the 6-4 guard should have an even larger role, following the departure of celebrated mainstays Joel Berry II and Theo Pinson.

Expect Williams’ PPG to increase, and combined with his defensive prowess, Kenny will establish himself as one of the best two guards in the nation.