Magic’s Paolo Banchero admits he liked North Carolina before becoming Duke basketball star

Magic’s Paolo Banchero admits he liked North Carolina before becoming Duke basketball star

**Magic’s Paolo Banchero Admits He Liked North Carolina Before Becoming Duke Basketball Star**

Before Paolo Banchero became one of the brightest young stars in college basketball and an NBA No. 1 overall draft pick, he had a surprising admission about his recruitment process: he originally liked the University of North Carolina more than Duke.

Paolo Banchero, now a rising forward for the Orlando Magic, had a recruitment journey that captivated basketball fans and scouts alike. Coming out of high school as one of the nation’s top prospects, Banchero attracted interest from some of the most storied basketball programs in the country, including Duke, North Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Gonzaga. While many assumed his path would naturally lead to Duke, where he became a standout player, Banchero has openly shared that his feelings early on leaned toward North Carolina.

In candid interviews, Banchero revealed that he initially felt drawn to UNC’s culture and basketball tradition. The Tar Heels’ legacy, the blue-and-white colors, and the campus atmosphere resonated with him as a young player. For a time, he seriously considered what it would be like to don a UNC jersey and compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference for one of college basketball’s most iconic programs.

However, his recruitment experience was complex and evolving. When he officially visited Duke, Banchero said he was initially underwhelmed. The visit did not feel as warm or welcoming as he expected, leaving him uncertain about committing there. But then the COVID-19 pandemic altered the recruitment landscape dramatically, moving many interactions online.

During this period, Duke’s legendary head coach Mike Krzyzewski personally reached out to Banchero multiple times, establishing a connection that proved pivotal. Coach K’s encouragement, assurances, and vision for Banchero’s future convinced the young star that Duke was the right place to reach his full potential. The promise that Duke could elevate him to be not just a lottery pick but the No. 1 overall pick was a decisive factor.

At Duke, Banchero quickly emerged as a dominant force. His blend of size, skill, and basketball IQ made him a matchup nightmare for opponents. In his freshman season, he averaged over 17 points and nearly 8 rebounds per game, earning First-Team All-ACC honors and leading the Blue Devils to deep postseason success. His performance cemented his status as a top NBA prospect.

Looking back, Banchero has expressed gratitude for both his time at Duke and the process that led him there, even as he fondly recalls his early admiration for UNC. He credits the intense competition and high expectations at Duke for helping him mature as a player and person, preparing him for the professional stage.

Paolo Banchero’s journey from a high school phenom who once favored North Carolina to a Duke star and NBA first overall pick exemplifies how recruitment isn’t always straightforward. It’s a testament to the influence of coaching relationships, personal growth, and finding the best fit beyond first impressions. As Banchero continues his career with the Orlando Magic, fans will remember his unique path—one that involved loving the Tar Heels before becoming a Blue Devil.