The Malachi Moreno Sweepstakes: Can UNC Basketball Catch Up?

The Tar Heels might be facing an uphill battle in their pursuit of highly-touted center Malachi Moreno, a 2025 recruit who has UNC basketball fans excited. While the UNC basketball team has made their interest clear, offering Moreno a spot on their roster, it seems Kentucky might be gaining momentum in the sweepstakes.

The battle for top recruits is heating up in the world of college basketball.

Moreno, a 7-foot, 230-pound four-star center, is ranked No. 26 overall and No. 2 among centers on the 247Sports 2025 Composite. He received an offer from UNC basketball head coach Hubert Davis back in May, and while the Tar Heels are still in the running, they might need to make up some ground to secure his commitment.

Malachi Moreno is a highly-sought-after recruit in the 2025 class.

One crystal ball prediction from HS Top Recruits, a reputable source with a strong track record, has Moreno committing to Kentucky. This shouldn’t come as a surprise, given Moreno’s recent unofficial visit to the Wildcats’ campus. While the Tar Heels are still in pursuit, they’ll need to make a strong push to steal him from under Kentucky’s nose.

A Familiar Story

This isn’t the first time UNC basketball has found themselves in a heated recruiting battle. In fact, it’s a story all too familiar for Tar Heels fans. But with Moreno’s talent on the line, it’s clear why UNC is putting in the effort to land him.

The Tar Heels are no strangers to intense recruiting battles.

Moreno has named eight finalists in his recruitment, including UNC, Kentucky, Ohio State, Arkansas, Iowa, Louisville, Notre Dame, and Indiana. While he’s yet to confirm any plans to visit Chapel Hill, the Tar Heels are still holding out hope that they can sway him to join their ranks.

A Decision Looms

With Moreno hinting that he might wrap up his recruitment before his 18th birthday in late October, the clock is ticking for UNC basketball to make their move. The early signing period is just around the corner, and the Tar Heels will need to bring their A-game if they want to land this talented young center.

The decision looms large for Malachi Moreno. Will he choose UNC or head elsewhere?

Only time will tell if UNC basketball can overcome the odds and secure Moreno’s commitment. One thing’s for sure, though - this recruitment battle is far from over.