In every class, there’s a small handful of players whose level of production and projection greatly outweighs their level of recruitment and general buzz. In North Carolina’s 2025 class, few players (if any) fit that bill more than Ravenscroft’s Chance Gladden. The 6’3″ guard generated quite the buzz over the holiday break after breaking the John Wall Holiday Invitational scoring record with his 57-point outburst against Southern Durham. Outside of that, the general public has been largely unaware of just how dominant Gladden has been this season.
The 6’3″ guard is averaging 26.4p, 6.4r, 3.6a, & 1.6s per game while shooting 36% from three (6a/g) and 81% from the free-throw line (7a/g). What stands out immediately when watching him is his feel for the game, shot-making ability, and positional size. He’s a high-level decision-maker who simply knows how to make the most of even the smallest advantages. He plays with elite patience, utilizing float dribbles, his eyes, and his body to force defenders into indecision. He’s a gifted passer who knows every read in the book, always getting his eyes on the second line of defense as early as possible and getting the ball to the right spot efficiently.
Along with his playmaking sense, his shot making ability cannot be overstated. He’s a legitimate three-level scorer who plays off two feet and has a smooth, easy release. He leverages his passing ability to keep defenses from overloading to his side too often, allowing him to create space for himself whenever he sees fit. He’s a solid rim threat thanks to his added strength, underrated explosiveness, and ability to play off two feet. At 6’3″, he’s able to play either guard position and has proven to be comfortable on or off the ball. He’s also a willing defender who can guard 1-3 effectively. He fits the prototypical guard that a lot of D-I programs crave, and it shouldn’t be long before his stock begins to trend upwards.
Gladden is hearing from UNCG, Loyola-Chicago, and Harvard most frequently and has yet to receive his first offer.