CONFIRMED: UNC Fires Hubert Davis, Promotes Brad Frederick to Head Coach
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — In a stunning but perhaps inevitable move, the University of North Carolina has parted ways with head men’s basketball coach Hubert Davis following an underwhelming 2024-25 campaign. The Tar Heels stumbled to a 23-14 record and suffered an early first-round elimination in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, ending what many fans and analysts had hoped would be a deep postseason run.
The university wasted no time in naming Davis’s replacement. Current assistant coach Brad Frederick will take over the program immediately, stepping into one of the most prestigious and pressure-filled jobs in college basketball.
The Fall of the Davis Era
Davis, a former Tar Heel star and assistant under Hall of Famer Roy Williams, took over the program in 2021 with high expectations. While his tenure included a remarkable run to the 2022 NCAA Championship game, the team’s performance in recent seasons became increasingly inconsistent.
This past season was marked by close losses, offensive struggles against elite defenses, and a lack of dominance in ACC play. The early exit from the tournament was the breaking point for an administration determined to return UNC to national title contention.
“Hubert Davis will always be part of the Carolina family,” UNC Athletics Director Bubba Cunningham said in a statement. “We are grateful for his contributions to our program both as a player and coach. However, we believe it is time for new leadership to guide our team forward.”
Enter Brad Frederick
Frederick, 48, is no stranger to the Carolina blue. A former UNC player in the 1990s, he has served on the Tar Heels’ staff since 2013, first under Roy Williams and then under Davis. Known for his recruiting connections, player development skills, and steady leadership, Frederick has long been considered a strong internal candidate for the top job.
“This is a dream come true,” Frederick said during his introductory press conference. “I grew up in this program, played for this program, and have spent the last decade coaching in this program. My mission is simple — to bring Carolina Basketball back to the level our fans expect.”
Fan Reaction
The reaction in Chapel Hill has been mixed. Some fans welcome the continuity of promoting from within, believing Frederick’s knowledge of the team’s culture will lead to a smooth transition. Others hoped for a high-profile hire from outside the program to inject fresh energy and ideas.
On social media, former players and UNC alumni expressed support for Frederick, praising his work ethic and deep ties to the school.
Looking Ahead
Frederick’s first order of business will be stabilizing the current roster, with the transfer portal looming as a potential threat to team chemistry. Recruiting will also be a major focus, as UNC looks to bolster its frontcourt and add elite perimeter shooters.
The ACC remains one of the toughest conferences in the country, but Frederick made it clear he embraces the challenge. “We’re going to play fast, play smart, and play together,” he said. “Most importantly, we’re going to fight to hang another banner in the Dean Dome.”
With the Davis era now closed and the Frederick chapter beginning, the Tar Heel faithful will be watching closely to see if this internal promotion can restore Carolina Basketball to its championship pedigree.
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