Before rising to fame as a Duke star and the Orlando Magic’s No. 1 overall NBA draft pick, Paolo Banchero surprisingly admired North Carolina during his youth. Despite his current status as Duke royalty, Banchero acknowledged that his early basketball experiences were connected to the Tar Heels, explaining how his childhood loyalties were shaped.
Childhood Ties to North Carolina Basketball
Banchero revealed on The Pivot that his elementary through high school AAU team wore Carolina blue colors, which influenced his early support for the Tar Heels. Additionally, his mother coached a high school player who eventually played at North Carolina, creating personal connections to the program.
I ain’t gonna lie, growing up, I actually liked the Tar Heels a little bit,
Banchero said on The Pivot.
I can’t lie because my Rotary team, my elementary through high school AAU team, is Carolina blue colors. So, that was my colors I wore playing so we always liked Carolina. And my mom, she also had a player that she coached in high school go on to play at North Carolina.
Transition from Tar Heels Fan to Duke Blue Devil
Although Banchero had early ties to North Carolina, he committed to Duke in August 2020 after considering several top programs, including UNC, Gonzaga, Kentucky, and Tennessee. During his impressive collegiate season, he earned ACC Rookie of the Year honors, led Duke to the Final Four, and was named a second-team consensus All-American.
There were some ties there to North Carolina,
Banchero acknowledged.
But I ended up being a Blue Devils. I’m proud to be a Blue Devil.
Career Highlights and NBA Draft Journey
Coming out of Seattle’s O’Dea High School as the No. 2 overall prospect in the 2021 recruiting class, Banchero was a McDonald’s All-American who drew offers from elite programs. He signed with Duke in November 2020 and delivered a standout freshman season before declaring for the 2022 NBA Draft, where the Orlando Magic selected him first overall. This marked him as one of only five Blue Devils to receive the top draft position, potentially paving the way for Duke star Cooper Flagg to follow.
Connection to Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand
In an interesting coincidence, Banchero later signed a multi-year endorsement deal with Jordan Brand, the company founded by UNC legend Michael Jordan, a six-time NBA champion. Banchero expressed enthusiasm for joining the brand and seeing it as a perfect platform to build his own legacy.
Just to be able to sign with Jordan and be a part of that brand and just the greatness that is associated with that brand and me trying to build my own greatness, there’s no better place to be for me,
Banchero said. So, really excited about that.
Significance of Banchero’s Journey and Future Outlook
Paolo Banchero’s story highlights how early influences and personal connections can shape young athletes’ paths, even if they eventually compete for rival programs. His growth from a young fan of North Carolina to a proud Duke Blue Devil and top NBA draft pick illustrates a remarkable journey fueled by talent and determination. As Banchero continues his professional career with the Orlando Magic and expands his brand presence through Jordan Brand, basketball fans will watch with anticipation to see how his legacy develops both on and off the court.