Five-star Class of 2026 point guard Deron Rippey Jr. was in Chapel Hill for his official visit this weekend, picking an excellent time to visit North Carolina.
Sure, Bill Belichick stole all the headlines, but Rippey Jr.'s visit is a MAJOR one for Hubert Davis and the UNC basketball program.
Photos of the Blairstown, New Jersey native surfaced from his official visit, as fans can dream of the possibility of him committing to the program over the next few months.
We're biased, but doesn't he look great in the UNC basketball program's historic uniforms?!
2026 5⭐️ PG Deron Rippey Jr on his #OfficialVisit to UNC! Does he look like a Tar Heel or what?!?! 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/Zahs67FYA6
— The Tar Heel Story (@tarheelstory) September 1, 2025
While the Tar Heels are heavily active in recruiting some of the top players from the Class of 2026, Rippey Jr. might just be at the top of their wish-list. An explosive athlete, Rippey Jr. would be the perfect fit for the UNC basketball program's style of play, as he plays the game with an extremely high motor while using his athleticism to help him make plays on both ends of the floor.
Add that to his above-average ability on the defensive end of the floor. If he continues to develop his game, there's no limit as to how far this rising high school senior can be down the road.
The hope is that his visit went well, as it was likely aided by the hype in Chapel Hill surrounding the UNC football program. Adding a player of Rippey Jr.'s caliber would be a major get for Hubert Davis and company as they look to put together an elite 2026 recruiting class.