UNC basketball commit Drake Powell continues his amazing ascension up the rankings, as he’s now viewed as a top-10 player in his class.

What a couple of months it has been for UNC basketball commit Drake Powell!

In April 2022, the future Tar Heel entered the recruiting rankings as the No. 74 player in the Class of 2024.

Fast forward just under 14 months, and Powell is now considered a five-star prospect and a top-10 player in his graduating class.

On Thursday, 247Sports updated its national rankings for the class of 2024, and Powell is among the class’ biggest risers. He jumped from No. 18 to No. 9 overall, a move that solidifies his five-star status.

The Tar Heels are currently the only school with two commitments ranked inside the top 10. Powell’s future teammate, Ian Jackson, maintained his spot as the No. 5-ranked player in the class.

At the Pangos All-American Camp this past week, Powell seemed to really impress Brandon Jenkins of 247Sports with his athleticism and defensive ability:

“Powell didn’t blow me away from a production standpoint when watching him perform offensively. However, he showcased tools that will make him greater later on. He is blessed with flexible hips and great explosion. His defensive prowess and upside should earn him early minutes in Chapel Hill. If his offense catches up to his gifts on the other side of the ball, Powell could walk away as one of the best two-way prospects this class has to offer.”

It’s been great to see Powell rise up the rankings, which is a testament to the work he’s put into his game over the last couple of months. With a very talented recruiting Class of 2024 already committed to the program, fans of the UNC basketball program should be excited for what’s to come in Chapel Hill in the near future,

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