Undrafted RJ Davis Signs with Lakers, Donates $4 Million to UNC
Former North Carolina Tar Heels guard RJ Davis, who went undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, has signed an Exhibit-10 contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. This marks a new chapter in Davis’s basketball journey, but his impact on the University of North Carolina will remain indelible, underscored by a remarkable $4 million donation back to his alma mater.
The donation is a testament to Davis’s deep connection with UNC and his appreciation for the opportunities afforded to him during his five-year collegiate career. His generosity will undoubtedly benefit future Tar Heels basketball programs.
Davis’s contributions to UNC extend far beyond financial support. His exceptional performance on the court earned him a place among the university’s basketball legends. His No. 4 jersey will soon hang in the Smith Center rafters, a permanent tribute to his remarkable accomplishments.
His 2023-24 season was particularly outstanding. He was named ACC Player of the Year and earned consensus first-team All-America recognition, leading the ACC in scoring with a career-high 21.1 points per game. A memorable highlight of that season was his record-breaking 42-point performance against Miami at the Smith Center in February.
Davis’s five-year career at UNC was a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. He is the only player in program history to achieve the remarkable feat of accumulating at least 2,500 points, 600 rebounds, 500 assists, 300 made 3-pointers, and 150 steals. He also holds the Tar Heels’ all-time records for successful 3-pointers (359) and free throw shooting percentage (86.1 percent).
His impressive scoring prowess placed him among the ACC’s all-time greats. With 2,725 career points, he stands third on the ACC’s all-time scoring list, trailing only Tyler Hansbrough and JJ Redick, both of whom played four seasons in college. This achievement underscores his remarkable consistency and scoring ability throughout his collegiate career.
Davis’s journey from undrafted free agent to NBA hopeful, coupled with his significant contribution to his former team, exemplifies his character and commitment to the game. While he embarks on a new chapter in Los Angeles, his legacy at UNC remains secure, etched in the history books and the hearts of Tar Heels fans. His $4 million donation serves as a powerful symbol of his gratitude and enduring connection to the university that nurtured his talent. The Smith Center will forever remember RJ Davis, not just for his record-breaking performances but also for his generosity and unwavering support.
