Jonathan Powell’s surge in minutes and a 17-point outing vs USC Upstate suggest growing trust from Coach Hubert Davis. For bettors, Powell’s minutes-driven scoring ups the appeal of UNC team totals and bench-scoring props; consider Powell over on low player-prop lines or backing North Carolina against mid-major opponents where bench depth matters.
Jonathan Powell Emerges as Reliable Depth for North Carolina
The North Carolina Tar Heels have seen their depth strengthen as the season progressed, and sophomore forward Jonathan Powell has been a clear beneficiary. The 6-foot-5, 189-pound forward has moved into a larger role at times, even seeing stints alongside the starters, a sign of growing trust from the coaching staff.
Season Snapshot and Key Numbers
Powell’s 2025 season averages: 5.4 points and 2.1 rebounds per game while shooting 35.9 percent from the field and 34.0 percent from three. Those numbers are modest, but they mask flashes of efficient scoring when his minutes increase.
Breakout Performance vs USC Upstate
Powell’s expanded role was on full display in the 80-62 win over USC Upstate, when he scored 17 points on 6-of-9 shooting, including 3-of-6 from three. That outing illustrated his ability to stretch the floor and contribute offensively in bursts when given a green light.
Impact on Rotation and Coaching Trust
Coaching decisions in recent games show the staff’s willingness to insert Powell into meaningful lineups. His defensive activity and occasional scoring spikes have been the primary reasons for increased playing time, signaling that Powell is viewed as a trusted rotational piece rather than a temporary fill-in.
What This Means Ahead of Conference Play
Conference play begins next Tuesday, and Powell’s development matters because opponent scouting will now focus on exploiting or limiting bench contributors. His ability to hit threes and defend multiple positions gives the Tar Heels more lineup flexibility as the schedule ramps up.
Betting Implications
Powell’s role growth has clear sports-betting ramifications: bettors should monitor his projected minutes when evaluating player-prop lines (points and 3-pointers). Against weaker or mid-major defenses, Powell’s minutes-related ceiling makes modest overs attractive. More broadly, improved bench scoring strengthens North Carolina’s case in team total and spread markets versus non-elite opponents. Always cross-check starter/injury reports and minute projections before placing wagers.
How Kansas Football Could Benefit from New Kansas City Chiefs Stadium
Here is how the Tar Heels' sophomore forward has played in the first two months of the season.
Si
