UNC Basketball's Non-Conference Schedule Takes Shape: A Familiar Face Returns to the Dean Dome

The UNC basketball program's non-conference schedule is taking shape, with a matchup against American University highlighting the return of former Tar Heel Jackie Manuel.

UNC Basketball’s Non-Conference Schedule Takes Shape

As the offseason continues to unfold, the UNC basketball program’s non-conference schedule is slowly but surely taking shape. And with each new game announcement, Tar Heel fans are getting more and more excited for the 2024-2025 season.

The Dean Dome will be rocking this season

One of the most recent additions to the schedule is a matchup against American University, set to take place on November 15th. This game will mark the return of former Tar Heel standout and coach Jackie Manuel, who is now an assistant coach for the Eagles.

“I’m thrilled to see Jackie back on the sidelines at the Dean Dome,” said a fellow Tar Heel alum. “He was always a class act, and I’m sure he’ll bring a lot of energy to the American bench.”

The American game will be the third non-conference game on the UNC basketball program’s schedule, following matchups against Elon on November 4th and a highly-anticipated showdown against Kansas on November 8th.

Here’s what we currently know about the Tar Heels’ non-conference schedule:

November 4 - Elon
November 8 - @Kansas
November 15 - American
November 22 - @Hawaii
November 25-27 - Maui Invitational
December 3 or 4 - ACC/SEC Challenge
December 14 - LaSalle
December 17 - Florida (Jumpman Invitational in Charlotte)
December 21 - UCLA (CBS Sports Classic at Madison Square Garden)

Coach Hubert Davis is building a tough non-conference schedule

Hubert Davis hasn’t been afraid to take on a competitive non-conference slate, and this season is no exception. With games against powerhouses like Kansas and UCLA, the Tar Heels will be battle-tested by the time ACC play rolls around.

And with the ACC/SEC Challenge and the Maui Invitational on the horizon, UNC will have plenty of opportunities to make a statement and build their resume for the 2025 NCAA Tournament.

The Tar Heels will look to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament this season

As the season approaches, Tar Heel fans are getting more and more excited to see what this team is capable of. With a tough non-conference schedule and a strong ACC slate, UNC is poised to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

Stay tuned, folks. It’s going to be a wild ride.