Blair Academy Star Deron Rippey Jr. Shocks Recruiting World with Commitment to North Carolina Tar Heels
In a stunning turn of events that has captured the attention of the college basketball landscape, Deron Rippey Jr., a standout 6’1″-6’2″, 175-pound point guard from Blair Academy in Blairstown, New Jersey, has committed to the University of North Carolina. Rippey made the announcement after unexpectedly cutting short his official visit to Chapel Hill — a clear sign of how strongly he connected with the Tar Heels program.
Rippey, one of the most coveted prospects in the 2025 class, chose UNC over a long list of powerhouse programs including Duke, Kentucky, Kansas, Louisville, Alabama, Michigan, Texas, UConn, Rutgers, Syracuse, and Seton Hall. Known for his blazing speed, court awareness, and ability to score in a variety of ways, Rippey has been the subject of national recruiting buzz for over a year.
Though he had official visits planned and ongoing conversations with several top programs, Rippey made a swift and confident decision after just a couple of days in Chapel Hill — scrapping the remainder of his visit and calling it “home.”
“From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt like I belonged,” Rippey said in a statement following his commitment. “Coach [Hubert] Davis and the entire staff showed how much they believe in me — not just as a player, but as a person. Carolina is where I see myself growing, competing, and winning.”
Rippey’s decision is a major recruiting victory for Coach Hubert Davis and the Tar Heels. With North Carolina in the midst of building a new core following several key departures to the NBA and graduation, landing a talent like Rippey is a huge step toward reestablishing dominance in the ACC and nationally.
During his junior season at Blair Academy, Rippey averaged 21.4 points, 6.8 assists, and 3.2 steals per game. His mix of quickness, playmaking, and defensive intensity set him apart in a crowded class of elite point guards. Coaches and scouts praise his ability to lead on both ends of the floor, showing maturity beyond his years and a high basketball IQ.
Blair Academy, a well-known prep powerhouse, has produced a steady stream of Division I talent, and Rippey is the latest in that lineage. His performance this past season cemented his reputation as one of the best two-way guards in the country.
“Deron plays with a chip on his shoulder,” one national scout commented. “He’s the kind of guard who can take over a game without forcing it. Carolina just got themselves a game-changer.”
Coach Davis echoed that sentiment in his reaction to the commitment: “We’re thrilled to welcome Deron to the Carolina family. He’s a fierce competitor, a leader, and someone who fits perfectly into the tradition and values of our program. I can’t wait to see what he accomplishes here.”
With his college decision now behind him, Rippey will return to Blair Academy focused on finishing his senior year strong and preparing to make an immediate impact in Chapel Hill. His pledge not only strengthens UNC’s 2025 recruiting class but also sends a clear message: the Tar Heels remain one of the top destinations for elite basketball talent.
As Carolina fans celebrate this major win on the recruiting trail, it’s clear that the arrival of Deron Rippey Jr. signals a new chapter — one filled with promise, excitement, and the potential for greatness.
