UNC Basketball’s New Era: Seth Trimble Steps Up
This season marks a significant shift for UNC basketball; it’s not just a continuation of tradition but a transformation. With a staggering 12 of 16 players on the roster being new, the team is almost entirely rebuilt from the previous year.
Among the few returners, only two are scholarship athletes, and just one has prior starting experience. That lone returning player, Seth Trimble, represents a link to the Tar Heels’ past, and the question looms: who else will commit to four years in today’s fluid college basketball landscape?
Despite entering the transfer portal after his sophomore season, Trimble chose to stay in Chapel Hill, driven by his loyalty to the program and his family’s legacy—his older brother, J.P. Tokoto, is a former standout at UNC. As Trimble steps into the captaincy role for a roster that’s been nearly reconstructed, he views this opportunity as a familiar challenge.
“I’ve always seen myself as a leader,” Trimble said during a press conference, emphasizing his high school experiences where he motivated teammates and maintained high standards. His leadership approach is seen as essential for fostering growth within the team.
Teammates have already noticed Trimble’s impact. Arizona transfer Henri Veesaar remarked on Trimble’s ability to energize the team, calling him like “another coach on the floor.” Trimble played a pivotal role in recruiting Veesaar, showcasing his skills both on and off the court.
Beyond basketball, Trimble has made headlines for becoming a franchisee at a Ben & Jerry’s in downtown Chapel Hill. He plans to create a specialty flavor dedicated to former head coach Roy Williams, demonstrating his commitment to the community and the program’s history.
Head coach Hubert Davis strongly supports Trimble, seeing him as a vital leader for the uncertain future in his fifth season. After tough losses in recent tournaments, Trimble’s emotional intensity showcases his dedication. As he enters this season, he reflects on the lessons learned and connections made at UNC, all while acknowledging the immense personal growth experienced during his time there.
