Last Updated on April 21, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Looking for a complete list of North Carolina NBA players? The North Carolina Tar Heels program has produced some of the greatest talent in basketball history, with countless North Carolina basketball NBA alumni leaving a lasting impact on the league. From global icons like Michael Jordan to dominant big men such as James Worthy and modern stars like Coby White, the tradition of Tar Heels in the NBA remains one of the most prestigious in the sport.

This is a comprehensive list of players who played for North Carolina and appeared in at least one NBA regular-season game.


Full List of North Carolina Tar Heels NBA Players

  • Michael Jordan
  • James Worthy
  • Sam Perkins
  • Brad Daugherty
  • Kenny Smith
  • Vince Carter
  • Antawn Jamison
  • Rasheed Wallace
  • Jerry Stackhouse
  • Theo Ratliff
  • Brendan Haywood
  • Raymond Felton
  • Sean May
  • Marvin Williams
  • Rashad McCants
  • Danny Green
  • Ty Lawson
  • Wayne Ellington
  • Ed Davis
  • Harrison Barnes
  • Kendall Marshall
  • Reggie Bullock
  • P.J. Hairston
  • Justin Jackson
  • Tony Bradley
  • Coby White
  • Cameron Johnson
  • Nassir Little
  • Day’Ron Sharpe
  • Walker Kessler
  • Brady Manek (did not play NBA regular season )
  • Leaky Black (G League/partial NBA exposure depending on cutoff)
  • Armando Bacot (NBA status ongoing)

Notable North Carolina Tar Heels in the NBA

  • Michael Jordan – Widely considered the greatest player of all time
  • Vince Carter – One of the most iconic dunkers in NBA history
  • James Worthy – Finals MVP and Lakers legend
  • Rasheed Wallace – Key piece of the 2004 Pistons championship team
  • Harrison Barnes – Consistent starter and NBA champion