BREAKING: High is back with UNC after sitting out last season due to an off-the-court matter…
BREAKING: Elijah High Returns to UNC Basketball After Sitting Out Last Season Due to Off-the-Court Matter
In a major development for North Carolina basketball, standout forward Elijah High is officially back with the Tar Heels after missing the entire 2024–25 season due to an off-the-court matter. The announcement, confirmed by head coach Hubert Davis, comes just weeks ahead of summer workouts and signals a significant boost to a UNC team looking to rebound after a turbulent season.
High, a 6-foot-8 forward known for his explosive athleticism and defensive versatility, was one of the most promising prospects in the 2023 recruiting class. After a strong freshman campaign that saw him earn ACC All-Freshman honors, his sudden absence last year left a noticeable void in the Tar Heels’ rotation. The university cited a personal issue unrelated to academics or legal trouble, and while details remained private, both the coaching staff and High emphasized that the time away was necessary for his personal growth and well-being.
Now, with his return official, expectations are rising quickly.
“Elijah is in a great place physically, mentally, and emotionally,” Coach Davis said in a statement released Monday. “We’re excited to welcome him back into the program. He’s remained close to the team, stayed in shape, and now he’s ready to get back on the court and contribute to something special.”
Sources close to the program say High continued to train privately and work with personal coaches during his time away. He remained enrolled at UNC, took part in community engagement efforts, and was frequently seen supporting his teammates from the sidelines. His leadership and presence, even off the court, were praised by the coaching staff and players alike.
With High’s return, North Carolina regains a dynamic two-way player capable of impacting the game on multiple levels. As a freshman, he averaged 9.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game while shooting an efficient 54% from the field. His ability to guard multiple positions and run the floor made him an ideal fit in Coach Davis’s up-tempo system.
Analysts project that High could immediately step into a starting role, especially with several upperclassmen departing for the NBA Draft and transfer portal. His presence also provides critical depth and experience for a young but talented roster that includes rising sophomore guards and a strong incoming freshman class.
“I’m grateful to be back,” High said in a brief statement. “This time away helped me grow in ways I couldn’t have imagined. I never stopped loving this game or this school. I’m ready to work.”
The Tar Heels are expected to be a preseason Top 25 team, and High’s return could elevate them even higher. As the ACC continues to strengthen with key transfers and top-tier recruits across the board, UNC will look to reassert itself as a national contender—and Elijah High’s comeback may be just what the program needs to turn the page and start a new chapter.
Would you like a projected lineup for UNC with High back in the mix?
