Armando Bacot Jr., born on March 6, 2000, is a standout American college basketball player known for his dominant presence with the North Carolina Tar Heels in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, Bacot’s basketball journey began garnering attention during his formative years at Trinity Episcopal School. He chose UNC over other prestigious programs as a highly
sought-after five-star recruit. Standing tall at 6 feet 11 inches and weighing 240 pounds, Bacot’s physical attributes and skill set have enabled him to set records, earn accolades, and represent the U.S. on international platforms, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
A major reason for the success of North Carolina basketball through the 2023-24 season could be credited to Armando Bacot Jr. He has been on top of his game throughout his five years with UNC. Bacot, a 6-foot-11, 240-pound player for the Tar Heels, has had multiple chances to declare for the NBA draft following each of the last two seasons. His biggest opportunity came following a run to the
2022 national championship game for UNC. With a change of heart both times, he decided to return for another season. The reason he decided to continue was because he never wanted the loss to be his final memory as a Tar Heel.
Bacot is averaging 14.4 points per game this season, according to ESPN. He received 20 points in his most recent March Madness Round 1 play. The Tar Heels defeated the Wagner Seahawks with a resounding 90–62 victory. Along with it, he added 15 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block. Bacot Jr. scored eighteen points in the second-round game against the Michigan State Spartans. putting up 7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 blocks to help his side win 85-69.
Go heels.com reports that Bacot leads UNC in rebounds (1,335) and double-doubles (68). In terms of offensive rebounds (476) and offensive rebounds per game (3.61), he is ranked second at UNC. He was named to the Associated Press Preseason First-Team All-America team the previous season. In UNC’s all-time scoring charts, he is ranked second.
