One-on-One with Bryson Howard; Decision Coming for Top UNC Target

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. —- One of North Carolina’s top targets in the 2026 class, Bryson Howard, competed at the USA Basketball Men’s Junior National Team minicamp this past weekend alongside the nation’s top young talent.
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The son of former Wake Forest and Dallas Mavericks standout Josh Howard has rocketed up the rankings this year, going from completely off the national radar to the No. 16-ranked prospect in the Rivals Industry rankings. A 6-foot-5 lefty wing from Frisco (Texas) Heritage, Howard has essentially narrowed the flood of newfound interest this year to three bluebloods — UNC, Kentucky, Duke — and is nearing his decision.
Throughout the minicamp, Howard impressed with his ability to drive downhill and finish over bigger defenders, as well as his ability to knock down shots from behind the arc. Howard’s drive and scrappiness stood out, consistently making hustle plays, whether it be getting an offensive rebound and putting it back up or switching onto a bigger man and holding his own. He has also impressed as an on-ball defender, forcing turnovers and making it hard for opposing players to find success.
But when it comes to interviews, he’s not one to seek out the attention eager or eagerly share his thoughts, which made the minicamp a rare interview, albeit brief, opportunity. Following Sunday’s session session at the US Olympic Training Center, Howard talked to Inside Carolina …
Your game took a massive leap this year. What do you think fueled that jump?
“My confidence, my skill work, all the hours I put in. A lot of ball-handling and shooting drills, and a lot of drills on the defensive end, too. Along with some stuff mentally and physically.”
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As a former player, how has your father helped shape your basketball development?
“I worked out with him a lot growing up and still do, but he always motivates me, and tells me to keep going no matter what the circumstance is.”
What about your visit and UNC recruitment has earned them a spot in your top 3? What stands out to you about UNC compared to the rest of your top 3?
“They treat me like family, my dad’s from North Carolina, and I used to be down there a lot. So being back in that environment and having that school down there is pretty great.”
What vibe did you get from the UNC team? And who did you spend the most time with on your visit?
“It was a nice vibe, it felt nice to be back in my second home. And then I’d probably say the person I spent the most time with was Coach Davis.”
On your UNC visit, what did they say and what did they envision your role being?
“They talked a lot about shot making, off-the-ball backdoor cuts, zoom actions, get actions. Stuff like that.”
Q:Who is in the inner circle that will help you make your decision?
“My mom and my dad.”
You have mentioned that you have a decision date set, with the intention to sign next month, but haven’t made it public. Have you already made a decision?
“No, I have not.”