Drake Powell grew up in an athletic household, where his father played baseball, and his mother was an all-state high school basketball player.
Likewise, his brother played basketball at Louisburg College, and his sister played volleyball at Virginia Tech.
Highlights
- Drake Powell’s father, Dedric, played baseball at UNC, and his mother, Cherice Powell, was an all-state high school basketball player.
- His parents created a disciplined yet encouraging environment for Drake and his siblings, both of whom also played college sports.
- His decision to play for North Carolina was influenced by his parents’ deep ties to the school.
Drake began playing basketball at Northwood High School and was selected to play in the 2024 McDonald’s All-American Boys Game.
He was one of the top players in the 2024 class and was considered a five-star recruit by most recruiting services.
Despite offers from Georgia, Florida State, Miami, N.C. State, Wake Forest, Texas A&M, and Tennessee, he committed to play college basketball at the University of North Carolina.
During his first year, Drake played in all 37 games and developed a Tar Heel defense that struggled at times during the 2024-25 campaign.
Later, he declared for the 2025 NBA draft, and the Brooklyn Nets drafted him with the 22nd pick on Wednesday night.
He becomes the Tar Heel taken in the first round since Day’Ron Sharpe was drafted 29th overall by the Brooklyn Nets in 2021.
Thank you for embracing and supporting me through the highs and lows of the past season. I have learned so much both on and off the court. I was born and bred a Tar Heel, and to have the opportunity to put on that uniform, run through that tunnel and compete for the University that I love is a feeling that is unmatched and I’ll never take that for granted.
Drake Powell
Drake Powell’s Parents Were Into Sports In Their Youth
Drake Edward Powell, the son of Cherice and Dedric Powell, was born on September 8, 2005, in Durham, North Carolina.
His parents raised him in a close-knit family alongside his brother, Deuce, and sister, Cera.
Cherice and Dedric Powell, both former athletes, have established a strong support system for their children. They played a crucial role in shaping their kids’ work ethic, humility, and competitive drive.
Dedric was a talented baseball player at the University of North Carolina (UNC), where he refined his skills and gained an understanding of collegiate athletics.
His experience at the highest level of college sports has provided invaluable guidance for Drake as he began his journey in basketball.
Currently, he works as a regional manager for a global biotech company in Morrisville.
I didn’t have a dad coming up and that motivated me to be the best dad and the best husband that I could be. Seeing them happy – that makes me feel good.
Dedric Powell
Meanwhile, Cherice Powell was an all-state high school basketball player before attending UNC.
Her firsthand knowledge of the game has been crucial in Drake’s development. She offered both technical advice and the kind of mental toughness needed to excel.
Moreover, she has an undergraduate degree in psychology and a master’s in rehabilitation psychology and counseling.
Furthermore, Cherice and Dedric fostered an environment of discipline, encouragement, and unwavering support.
They played a key role in their children’s athletic development, whether cheering from the stands or offering post-game advice.
Drake and his siblings continue to make a name for themselves, thanks to their strong athletic pedigree and a family dedicated to success.
Drake Powell’s Parents Shaped His Decision To Join UNC
Drake Powell’s commitment to North Carolina wasn’t a surprise to those who know his family’s deep ties to Chapel Hill.
Choosing the Tar Heels for him was about fulfilling a lifelong dream shaped by his parents’ love for Carolina.
We are excited to welcome @powellxdrake to the family for NIL Representation! pic.twitter.com/J6P3IMqGWH
— CAA Basketball (@CAA_Basketball) July 3, 2024
Cherice and Dedric Powell are UNC graduates. Dedric even played baseball for the Tar Heels, instilling in Drake an early connection to Carolina athletics.
There was something important going on in Chapel Hill. They were regulars from football games at Kenan Stadium to basketball in the Smith Center, building memories.
That’s one of the reasons I always wanted to play in the ACC – it’s been my dream for a long time. Going to UNC’s games I saw guys like Kendall Marshall, Marcus Paige, Joel Berry, and Caleb Love excel on the court. I’ve thought so many times about it one day being me hitting a game-winning shot or stopping a potential game-winning shot.
Drake Powell
Drake’s heart was always led to Carolina, even though he received interest from other programs. During his official visit, he admitted to his parents that Carolina was where he wanted to be.
His mother emphasized academics, while his father made sure he wasn’t rushing the decision. However, after speaking with players and staff, the entire family felt at ease.
Drake is a cousin of UNC head coach Hubert Davis, and the coach refers to his grandmother as an aunt.
His choice wasn’t just about basketball, but it was about family, tradition, and a place that had always felt like home.
Additional Information
- Drake Powell stands 1.98m tall and weighs about 88kg.
- On November 16, 2023, he signed a National Letter of Intent to play for the Tar Heels.
- He averaged 7.4 points per game, shooting 48% from the field and 38% from three-point range.
