North Carolina Secures Major 2026 Commitment from 5-Star Combo Guard Dylan Mingo
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has landed a high-profile commitment for the Class of 2026, with 5-star combo guard Dylan Mingo announcing his decision to join the Tar Heels. Mingo, who hails from Long Island Lutheran High School, is ranked as the nation’s No. 8 overall prospect in his class—with some recruiting services placing him even higher at No. 5—choosing UNC over finalists Baylor and Penn State. The announcement marks a significant victory for the Tar Heels’ recruiting efforts, solidifying their position as a top destination for elite basketball talent ahead of the 2026-2027 season.
Standing at 6 feet 4 inches with a 6-foot 9-inch wingspan, Mingo has established himself as one of the most dynamic playmakers in the country. A true combo guard capable of running the offense or playing off the ball, he averaged 19.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 2.3 steals per game during his junior season, leading Long Island Lutheran to a 28-3 record and a state championship appearance. His versatility on the court is a hallmark of his game—he can create his own shot off the dribble, knock down deep three-pointers at a 38% clip, and use his length to disrupt opposing ball handlers on defense.
Mingo’s recruitment drew widespread attention from college basketball powerhouses across the nation, with more than two dozen programs extending scholarship offers before he narrowed his list to three schools in early 2026. In explaining his decision, Mingo highlighted the Tar Heels’ storied basketball legacy, the opportunity to play under head coach Hubert Davis, and UNC’s strong academic support for student-athletes as key factors. “Growing up, I always watched UNC games and admired how they play the right way—team basketball, hard defense, and a commitment to winning the right way,” Mingo stated in his official commitment announcement. “Coach Davis and his staff have a plan for me to develop not just as a player, but as a person, and that’s exactly what I was looking for.”
Coach Davis expressed excitement about adding Mingo to the Tar Heels’ roster, noting his leadership qualities and ability to elevate those around him. “Dylan is the type of player who makes everyone on the court better,” Davis said. “He has the vision to set up his teammates, the skill to score when needed, and the competitiveness that defines championship programs. We’re thrilled he’s chosen to be a Tar Heel and help us build on our tradition of excellence.”
The commitment strengthens UNC’s 2026 recruiting class, which now includes two 5-star prospects and is currently ranked among the top five in the nation by major recruiting services. Long Island Lutheran head coach John Buckley, who has mentored several Division I players, praised Mingo’s work ethic and character. “Dylan has put in countless hours to get to where he is, and he deserves every bit of success coming his way,” Buckley commented. “UNC is getting a player who will make an immediate impact and represent the university with pride.”
Fans and alumni have embraced the news, with social media abuzz about Mingo’s potential to become a cornerstone of the Tar Heels’ backcourt in the coming years. The university plans to host an official signing ceremony for Mingo later this spring, and he is expected to enroll at UNC in the fall of 2026. As the 2026 recruiting cycle progresses, attention will turn to how Mingo’s commitment influences other top prospects, and how he will integrate with the Tar Heels’ existing core as they aim for conference and national titles.
