WILMINGTON — Will Seward signed with the University of North Carolina Wilmington men's basketball program on May 27, 2026, after previously planning to stop playing organized basketball. The 6-foot-6 forward from Hoggard High School had intended to enroll at the University of North Carolina to study business without continuing his basketball career.

The signing ceremony took place in the lobby outside the gym where Seward played during his high school career at Hoggard. Several current UNCW players attended the event, and Seward had announced his commitment on social media prior to the official signing.

"It kind of came out of nowhere," Seward said after signing with UNCW. "I was ready to leave organized basketball behind." He added, "It was just a surreal feeling. It’s one of those things you dream about as a kid, and seeing it all come together is really cool."

Seward averaged 16.3 points per game during his senior season at Hoggard and finished his high school career with more than 900 points and 400 rebounds. That season, Hoggard reached its first state championship appearance in 56 years. Seward is the third Hoggard player since 2000 to join the UNCW men's basketball program, following Joseph King and Zack Allen.

"UNCW is a phenomenal program, and it's great to be in town because I can still come back and support Hoggard," Seward said. "I was ready for life without basketball, but I'm glad I don't have to think about that anymore."