3 Reasons for Optimism for UNC Fans Already Looking Toward 2021

If it seems like the sky is falling in Chapel Hill, that's because it is. The Tar Heels are under .500 at the moment and there is a legit (probable) chance that North Carolina could miss out on the NCAA Tournament despite Cole Anthony's looming return. Keep your head up, Tar Heels fans, there is reason to believe 2020-21 will be much better.

3. Returning Talent in 2020-21

North Carolina will bring plenty of talent back / Peyton Williams/Getty Images

Anthony might be all but gone to the pros, but this team is retaining some top talent. In a lost season, Armando Bacot and Garrison Brooks have emerged as quality big men, and both will likely be back next year, as will a healthy Anthony Harris. The best programs in the country don't get to reload like that quite often, and the Tar Heels can once again be among the top teams in the ACC.

2. They're Killing it in Recruiting

Day'ron Sharpe / Michael Reaves/Getty Images

North Carolina currently has 247sports' No. 3 recruiting class, trailing only Kentucky and Duke. With four of the Top 50 players and three of the top 25, including gems like big men Day'Ron Sharpe and Walker Kessler to go along with point guard Caleb Love, they're stacked. The Tar Heels might not have tons of depth right now, but that will all change when Sharpe and Love get to Chapel Hill.

1. Roy Williams is Still Coach

North Carolina head coach Roy Williams / Andy Mead/ISI Photos/Getty Images

Williams might be facing a lot of heat right now, but how about we take a step back and remember that this is one of the greatest coaches ever to do it at the college level. Williams is a hell of a recruiter and has led the Tar Heels to some silverware in the past, and if anyone has the qualifications to try and lead North Carolina out of the doldrums, it's him. Take a deep breath, and let Williams work his magic.