EXCLUSIVE: Xavier Jackson Breaks Down Commitment to Tar Heels
In an exclusive sit-down with Carolina Hoops Weekly, Xavier Jackson—one of the most electric high school guards in the nation—pulled back the curtain on his much-anticipated commitment to the North Carolina Tar Heels. The 6’4” five-star phenom out of Chicago’s West Side made national headlines last week when he chose UNC over powerhouse programs like Duke, Kentucky, and Kansas.
“I’ve always dreamed of that Carolina blue,” Jackson said, flashing a wide grin. “The history, the culture, the brotherhood—everything about it just felt like home.”
Jackson, ranked No. 3 overall in the 2025 class by ESPN, is known for his freakish athleticism, quick-twitch explosion, and a jump shot that has scouts whispering comparisons to a young Ray Allen. But it’s not just the stats—28.4 points, 7.2 assists, and 3.1 steals per game last season—it’s the swagger. Jackson carries himself with the poise of a seasoned pro.
“The moment I stepped on campus, I felt the energy,” he said, recounting his unofficial visit to Chapel Hill in June. “Coach Davis showed me film of Ed Cota, Ty Lawson, and even Coby White. He told me, ‘You’re not here to fill shoes. You’re here to build your own legacy.’ That stuck with me.”
UNC head coach Hubert Davis has been quietly building a new era of Tar Heel basketball—one rooted in tradition but adapted for the pace and flash of today’s game. Jackson’s commitment signals a major win in that vision.
“He’s the kind of player who can change a program,” said assistant coach Jeff Lebo. “He’s vocal. He’s intense. He hates to lose. But what separates him is his mind. He sees plays two moves ahead.”
Off the court, Jackson is just as impressive. The son of a single mother, he speaks with gratitude and focus, often crediting his mother for keeping him grounded. “She used to work two jobs just to pay for AAU travel. Every game I play, I play for her.”
As for the future, Jackson isn’t shying away from pressure. “I know what it means to wear that jersey. You’re playing for Dean Smith, MJ, Vince, all of them. But that excites me. I want that weight. I want to be the next name they chant in the Dean Dome.”
Though he won’t suit up until fall 2025, Tar Heel fans are already buzzing. Social media lit up with clips of Jackson’s crossovers and high-flying dunks set to “Jumpman” the moment his commitment dropped. He’s expected to compete for a starting spot right away, potentially teaming up with returning sophomore wing KJ Blackmon to form one of the most dynamic backcourts in the country.
With Jackson now locked in, North Carolina’s 2025 recruiting class climbs to No. 2 nationally—trailing only Michigan State. But if Jackson’s words carry any weight, this isn’t just about recruiting rankings.
“I’m not coming to Carolina to participate,” he said. “I’m coming to win banners.”
The Dean Dome just got a little louder.
