Drake Powell, an NC native, emerged as a key starter for North Carolina in the later half of the year thanks to his defensive intensity.

The Brooklyn Nets have selected Drake Powell with the No. 22 pick in the 2025 NBA draft. Powell entered this past collegiate season as a highly touted recruit and 2024 McDonald’s All-American, ultimately starting 24 of 37 games in his lone season at North Carolina.

The Brooklyn Nets have drafted former Tar Heel Drake Powell with the 22nd overall pick of the NBA Draft. Powell is now the 114th player out of the University of North Carolina to hear his name called in the draft, adding to the program’s impressive footprint in the NBA.