CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — As the college basketball season approaches, RJ Davis is gearing up for what he calls his “last ride” at North Carolina. Over the past four years, Davis has established himself as a key player for the Tar Heels, earning a spot among the elite with his performance last season. Now, he finds himself as the only returning Associated Press first-team All-American from last year.
With the COVID-19 pandemic changing the landscape of college athletics, some athletes like Davis have been granted an extra year of eligibility. This adjustment, while beneficial for student-athletes, has also changed the dynamics of college basketball. In the past, teams were structured around four-year athletes. Now, teams are filled with fifth-year players, leading to older rosters. The average experience level for Division I men’s players has increased since the pandemic, currently standing at 2.62 years.
Davis isn’t alone in this new era; several other seventh-ranked Tar Heels and prominent teams like Kansas and Alabama are also showcasing experienced players this season. The trend highlights a shift where veteran athletes become essential, particularly with a focus on winning in competitions like the NCAA tournament.
Coach Jon Scheyer of Duke highlighted the significance of fifth-year players, stating that they bring valuable experience that can greatly advantage teams during the season. This sentiment is echoed across the league, as teams increasingly rely on seasoned athletes rather than fresh talent.
Davis himself reflects on the importance of remaining in college longer, emphasizing that it gives players a chance to tell their unique stories, “It gives more of like a story behind it.” His journey at UNC started in 2020 during Coach Roy Williams’ final year. Since then, he has achieved significant milestones, including becoming the ACC scoring leader and setting the Smith Center’s single-game point record, with 42 points against Miami.
Looking ahead, Davis is aiming not just for team success, but also for personal achievements. With the potential to tie the renowned Tyler Hansbrough for the school’s career scoring record, he remains focused and determined. “It’s proving myself right,” he said, as he prepares for this final chapter.
As the season unfolds, fans and players alike are eager to see how this experience-laden atmosphere will shape the competition in college basketball.
