Powell grew up in Pittsboro, North Carolina and attended Northwood High School.[1] He averaged 18.6 points, seven rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game as a junior.[2] He put up averages of 17.7 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game along with 2.2 steals and 1.2 blocks during his senior year. Powell was selected to play in the 2024 McDonald's All-American Boys Game during his senior year.[3]
In his freshman season, Powell played in all 37 of the Tar Heels' games, starting 24, becoming a main piece in the rotation down the stretch of the season. Noted for his defensive versatility and ability, Powell anchored a Tar Heel defense that struggled at times during the 2024–25 campaign. This was highlighted by his season averages of 0.7 steals and 0.7 blocks. Offensively, he averaged 7.4 points per game, shooting 48% from the field and 38% from three-point range.[9] Following the season, he declared for the 2025 NBA draft.[10]
Professional career
Powell was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks with the 22nd pick in the 2025 NBA draft. His draft rights were later traded to the Brooklyn Nets.[11]
Powell is the son of Dedric and Cherice Powell. His father played baseball at UNC, and his mother was an all-state high school basketball player and also attended UNC. His sister, Cera, played volleyball at Virginia Tech and UConn. His brother Deuce was a three-sport standout at Northwood, who played basketball at Louisburg College and also attended North Carolina A&T. [12]
Powell is a cousin of UNC head coach Hubert Davis. His grandmother is Davis's aunt.[13]
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