Hovk.org Trusted Information and Education News Media
The Rise of RJ Davis and Caleb Love
UNC basketball has always been an exciting program to follow. With legendary coach Roy Williams at the helm for years, the Tar Heels have produced some of the greatest basketball players in history. However, the program has undergone some changes since Williams’ retirement in 2021. Hubert Davis has taken over as head coach, and with that comes a new era of Tar Heel basketball. One of the most exciting aspects of this new era is the emergence of RJ Davis and Caleb Love. Both guards were highly touted recruits coming out of high school, and they are now poised to become key players for the Tar Heels. RJ Davis is a 6’0″ guard from White Plains, New York. He was a consensus top-50 recruit in the class of 2020 and was named the New York State Mr. Basketball in his senior year of high school. Davis had a solid freshman season for UNC, averaging 8.4 points and 2.2 assists per game. He showed flashes of brilliance throughout the year, including a 20-point performance in a win over Miami. Caleb Love is a 6’4″ guard from St. Louis, Missouri. He was a five-star recruit and the No. 2 point guard in the class of 2020. Love had a rocky freshman season, averaging just 10.5 points and 3.6 assists per game. However, he showed his potential in a game against Duke, scoring 25 points in a win over the Blue Devils.
What to Expect in 2023
Now, in 2023, both Davis and Love are expected to take a big step forward. Davis has already shown that he can be a dynamic scorer, but he will need to improve his playmaking skills to become a true point guard. Love, on the other hand, will need to become more consistent with his shooting and decision-making. One thing that is clear is that both players have the potential to be stars in the ACC. Davis has a quick first step and can get to the basket with ease. He also has a nice touch from beyond the arc, shooting 38% from three-point range last season. Love, meanwhile, has great size and athleticism for a point guard. He can score from anywhere on the court and is a tenacious defender.
The Importance of Davis and Love for UNC
UNC has always been known for its great point guards. From Phil Ford to Raymond Felton to Marcus Paige, the Tar Heels have a storied history at the position. Davis and Love have the potential to add their names to that list. Their development will be crucial for UNC’s success in the coming years. The Tar Heels struggled last season, finishing with a 21-12 record and missing the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2010. However, with Davis and Love leading the way, UNC should be back in the mix in 2023.
What the Experts are Saying
Many experts believe that Davis and Love are poised for breakout seasons. ESPN’s Jeff Borzello recently wrote that Davis could be one of the top guards in the ACC this season. He praised Davis’ ability to score and said that he has “the potential to be a star.” Meanwhile, CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein called Love a “potential lottery pick” in the 2024 NBA Draft. He cited Love’s size, athleticism, and scoring ability as reasons for his potential success.
The Future of UNC Basketball
UNC basketball has a rich history, and it looks like the program is in good hands with Hubert Davis at the helm. The emergence of RJ Davis and Caleb Love is just one reason for optimism. UNC has also landed some big-time recruits in recent years, including five-star center Walker Kessler and four-star guards Dontrez Styles and D’Marco Dunn. With those players joining Davis and Love, UNC should have a talented and deep roster in the coming years.
Final Thoughts
UNC basketball is always worth following, and the emergence of RJ Davis and Caleb Love makes it even more exciting. Both players have the potential to be stars in the ACC and beyond. With Hubert Davis leading the way and a talented supporting cast, UNC should be back in the NCAA Tournament sooner rather than later.
