All Tar Heels

Brother of UNC Basketball Star Has 'Something Special' Potential

Potential UNC basketball target King Bacot continues to track as one of the premier talents in his class.
Photo credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

In February, King Bacot shined for Team Loaded 2029 (Va.) at the Phenom Winter Nationals and, despite being a mere seventh-grader, began to garner headlines. Fast forward a month, and the younger brother of fifth-year UNC basketball big man Armando Bacot is now playing up a grade.

According to an in-depth evaluation courtesy of Phenom Hoops' Patrick O'Brien on Tuesday, King Bacot "makes the game look easy" no matter the age of his competition.

Here's a snippet of what O'Brien observed in the 6-foot-2 guard's game over the weekend:

"He just has an uncanny feel for the game...running the show offensively, making plays off the dribble, and finding his teammates...This is why I was eager to see him more when he played up a level, against players his size and bigger, similar strength, and older.

"Bacot was able to give us that glimpse when he played with Team Loaded 2028, and he elevated his game even more. He showed more of his strength and ability to break down defenders, create his own shot off the dribble, show his touch and ability to finish around the basket, but also step out and knock down shots...

"Right now though, all you can say is that Bacot has the talent to be something special and a future star..."

UNC basketball head coach Hubert Davis likely won't target 2029 preps for another three years.

Even so, given King Bacot's advanced displays and the Tar Heel treasure that is his brother, currently tied with Phil Ford at No. 2 on the program's all-time scoring list with 2,290 points, his name seems worth remembering until that time arrives.

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Stay tuned to All Tar Heels on SI.com for more UNC basketball recruiting news.


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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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