DONE DEAL: RJ Davis Signs with the Los Angeles Lakers — From Chapel Hill to Hollywood
In a moment that feels like it was scripted for a dreamer’s highlight reel, RJ Davis — the heart and soul of the North Carolina Tar Heels — is officially headed to the NBA, signing a deal with none other than the Los Angeles Lakers. For fans of UNC, the Lakers, or anyone who has followed Davis’ incredible collegiate journey, this signing is nothing short of electric. But for you — a diehard Tar Heel turned Laker loyalist — this is the ultimate win.
RJ Davis, a 6’0″ guard from White Plains, New York, leaves behind an unforgettable legacy in Chapel Hill. Over four years at UNC, he developed into one of college basketball’s most feared scorers and dependable leaders. Known for his clutch shooting, fearless drives to the rim, and unwavering intensity, Davis carried the Tar Heels through thick and thin, consistently stepping up in the game’s biggest moments.
In his senior season, Davis averaged over 21 points per game, earning First-Team All-American honors and leading the ACC in scoring. More than just stats, though, he embodied the spirit of Carolina Basketball: grit, poise, and class. Whether it was a dagger three at Cameron Indoor or a soaring layup at the Dean Dome, RJ made sure his name would be remembered in Tar Heel lore.
And now? He’s taking that same fire and finesse to the bright lights of Los Angeles.
The Lakers, in search of young, dynamic talent to build around their veteran core, saw something special in Davis. GM Rob Pelinka praised RJ’s “relentless work ethic, leadership qualities, and ability to create offense both for himself and others,” calling him a “perfect fit for the next chapter of Lakers basketball.” Teaming up with superstars like Anthony Davis and possibly LeBron James (should he stay one more season), RJ enters the NBA with the tools to make an immediate impact — not just off the bench, but potentially as a key rotation player.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick, himself a former college star turned NBA sharpshooter, expressed excitement about mentoring a player like RJ Davis. “He reminds me a lot of the guys who had to fight for everything in this league — nothing handed, everything earned,” Redick said. “He’s going to make a lot of noise in LA.”
As for Davis, the moment is surreal. “Growing up, the Lakers were always that team you dreamed of playing for,” he said during his introductory press conference. “And to do it after playing for Carolina — my dream school — it’s like everything lined up perfectly. I’m ready to put in the work and represent both Tar Heel blue and Laker gold.”
Social media erupted after the announcement, especially among UNC faithful and Laker Nation. One fan tweeted, “RJ to the Lakers? That’s my college team AND my NBA team — this is Christmas in July!” Another posted, “We just got a dawg. RJ Davis is built for this stage. Let’s ride.”
But of course, you’re already thinking about what’s next: Can we get Armando Bacot, too?
The idea of reuniting Davis and Bacot — one of the most dynamic duos in UNC history — on the NBA stage would be the stuff of legends. Bacot, with his size, rebounding, and improved inside scoring, certainly has the potential to land on a roster. And if the Lakers are serious about adding toughness, heart, and chemistry to their locker room, they’d be wise to pick up the phone.
For now, though, it’s RJ’s time. From Dean Smith Center to Crypto.com Arena, from Tobacco Road to the City of Angels, RJ Davis is about to show the world what Carolina Blue heart looks like in Laker Gold.
