Paolo Banchero: UNC Interest Before Duke Basketball
- 1 overall NBA draft pick and duke standout, admitted to a surprising childhood preference.
- Despite his Tar Heel leanings, Banchero chose Duke, where he earned all-American honors and ACC Rookie of the Year in the 2021-22 season.
- "There were some ties there to North Carolina," Banchero said.
Paolo Banchero, the Orlando Magic’s rising star, surprisingly favored North Carolina, not Duke, during his childhood, according to a recent interview. Before etching his name into basketball lore at Duke, the future NBA no.1 pick and All-American once harbored Tar Heel affections, influenced by AAU team colors and family ties. This early affinity adds a interesting layer to the story of Banchero’s eventual path to Duke basketball greatness and the NBA. Despite the initial interest, Banchero’s commitment to Duke led to a stellar college career. He would eventually sign with Jordan Brand.News Directory 3 offers insight into this unexpected twist. What exciting developments lie ahead as Banchero continues his career with the Magic and the iconic Jordan Brand?
Paolo Banchero Reveals Childhood Affection for North Carolina Before Duke Stardom
Updated May 26, 2025
Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero, a former No. 1 overall NBA draft pick and duke standout, admitted to a surprising childhood preference. Banchero confessed on “The Pivot” podcast that he “actually liked the Tar Heels a little bit” growing up. His AAU team colors and his mother’s coaching ties to UNC influenced his early affinity.
Despite his Tar Heel leanings, Banchero chose Duke, where he earned all-American honors and ACC Rookie of the Year in the 2021-22 season. he led the blue Devils to the Final Four, losing to North Carolina in coach Mike krzyzewski’s final game.
“There were some ties there to North Carolina,” Banchero said. “But I ended up being a Blue Devil. I’m proud to be a Blue devil.”
Rated as a top prospect out of Seattle’s O’Dea High school,Banchero considered offers from Gonzaga,Kentucky,Tennessee,and UNC before committing to Duke in November 2020. After one season, he entered the 2022 NBA Draft and was selected first overall by Orlando.
Adding another layer of irony, Banchero later signed with Jordan Brand, founded by UNC legend Michael Jordan. This move connects Banchero to the very program he once admired, as he builds his NBA career.
“Just to be able to sign with Jordan and be a part of that brand and just the greatness that is associated with that brand and me trying to build my own greatness, there’s no better place to be for me,” Banchero said. “So, really excited about that.”
What’s next
Banchero aims to build on his NBA All-star status, further solidifying his place with the Orlando Magic and within the Jordan Brand family. His performance will be closely watched as he navigates his career after his Duke basketball success.