What's going to be the final call for star small forward Jamir Watkins? That's what so many UNC basketball fans have on their mind, as it's deadline day for Watkins to either decide he's all-in on staying in the 2025 NBA Draft, or pull his name out to retain college eligibility.
Things appear to be a coin toss, with no one knowing what Watkins has in mind. However, if he does decide he wants to play college ball next season, it could end up being good news for Hubert Davis and his staff.
Multiple reports have linked Watkins as a potential target for Davis, as the UNC head man is in desperate need of wing help ahead of next season. Should Watkins become available, several teams are going to work to sign him. That list is expected to include the Heels.
Jamir Watkins is yet to make his final NBA Draft decision
Watkins has until 11:59 p.m. ET to make this tough call. Recent NBA Mock Drafts have him going in the middle of the second round of the draft. If the right NIL deal comes in, however, deciding to push the NBA back a year to suit up for an NCAA powerhouse could prove to be the right move.
Obviously, it's not a tough sell to play for a program like North Carolina. While plenty of haters are celebrating things not exactly going according to plan for Davis this offseason, UNC adding someone like Watkins would immediately change the outlook for 2025-26.
Last year for the Florida State Seminoles, the 6-7, 210-pound New Jersey product averaged 18.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, taking home All-ACC honors. He's a sharpshooter with the ball in his hands, with the ability to knock down shots from all over the hardwood.
Soon enough, everyone will find out if he'll be staying in the draft or not. If he does decide to pull out, the race will begin for a college contender to bring him to town. UNC fans are hoping his next stop will be Chapel Hill.