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J&J Show: Penny stays at Memphis but Davis is OUT at UNC

North Carolina fired Davis & eyes a whale hire

VCU v North Carolina
GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA - MARCH 19: Head coach Hubert Davis of the North Carolina Tar Heels reacts during the second half against the VCU Rams in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.
Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images

Shockwaves hit college basketball as Hubert Davis was dismissed by University of North Carolina, a move that immediately reshapes one of the sport’s most iconic jobs. Despite flashes of success—including a national title game run early in his tenure—recent inconsistency and unmet expectations ultimately led UNC to make the change.

Now, attention turns to potential replacements. Names already circulating include Nate Oats, known for his modern offensive approach, Scott Drew, a proven national champion builder, and Wes Miller, a former Tar Heel with program ties. There’s also intrigue around NBA assistants and rising mid-major coaches as UNC looks to balance tradition with evolution.


The situation draws an interesting contrast to Memphis Tigers men's basketball and Penny Hardaway. While Memphis has faced its own ups and downs, the school has remained committed to its program legend, valuing continuity, recruiting strength, and cultural identity over quick-trigger decisions.

UNC’s move underscores the pressure at blue-blood programs, where history demands immediate results. Memphis, meanwhile, is betting that stability with Hardaway can still translate into long-term success—two different philosophies playing out on a national stage.

North Carolina fired Davis & eyes a whale hire