Deadspin: Five-Star DeMarcus Henry Commits to North Carolina, Bringing His Journey Home

A top recruit heads home

Henry, who attends AZ Compass Prep in Chandler, Arizona, is ranked No. 3 in the Class of 2027 by the 247 Sports composite and No. 2 by ESPN. ESPN says he is North Carolina’s highest-rated commitment since Cole Anthony, then ranked No. 2, joined the Tar Heels in 2019.

Kentucky, Arkansas and Louisville were the other finalists. Henry is a 6-foot-7 forward and the first five-star recruit to commit to North Carolina under Malone.

Family ties and a full-circle choice

Henry told ESPN that North Carolina’s plans for him matched what he wanted and praised Malone’s winning approach. He said he was from Charlotte and had lived there until middle school, making the move feel like a return home.

Jordan joined the recruiting effort

Michael Jordan spoke with Henry by phone as part of North Carolina’s recruiting effort. Henry told ESPN he felt nervous during the call and recalled Jordan saying he hoped to see him in a Tar Heels uniform. Henry said he grew up watching Duke and North Carolina and described his commitment as a surreal, full-circle moment.

North Carolina prepares for season

The Tar Heels are coming off a 24-9 season that ended with a first-round NCAA Tournament loss. Their season opens Monday with a home game against Western Carolina.