Another Tar Heel could soon be headed to Chicago.

North Carolina wing Drake Powell is officially staying in the 2025 NBA Draft, and his stock continues to rise. While his departure from Chapel Hill may disappoint Carolina fans, NBA teams are taking notice, especially the Chicago Bulls.

According to KC Johnson of CHGO Sports Network, the Bulls were *“very, very impressed”* with Powell during his workout at the Advocate Center. Johnson joined *The Chicago Lead* podcast to discuss Chicago’s draft strategy and highlighted Powell as a prospect who’s gaining traction.

I do know that they would prefer to draft someone in the frontcourt or at the wing. And if they go the guard route, they want someone with size and versatility. One guy who’s moving up boards is Drake Powell, the toolsy prospect out of North Carolina,” Johnson said.

“It’s still early, but I’ve heard the Bulls were impressed with his first workout.”

Powell’s rising draft stock aligns with what many scouts have been saying: he’s an athletic, versatile player with upside on both ends of the floor. Johnson also noted the personal connection between Powell and current Bull Coby White, suggesting the families are close, a detail that may not directly affect draft decisions but could add familiarity to the equation.

this is currently projected as an early second-round pick which the Powell could be a sleeper to sneak into the first round. Given his strong athletic testing and positive impressions in workouts, taking him earlier than expected may not be a reach — it might just be smart.

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