CHAPEL HILL – Sylvia Hatchell has two things to look forward to later this year. She’ll be the first woman with UNC ties to be a member of the Naismith Hall of Fame. And Hatchell also has the top recruiting class for 2013.

“We don’t have any seniors next year so we’re going to be young. People are going to expect a lot but I’m going to put them out there in the fire and let them grow-up,” Hatchell said.

The Heels are looking to fill the absense the team’s top scorers, seniors Tierra Ruffin-Pratt and Waltiea Rolle.

UNC’s incoming class includes the nation’s No. 3 recruit Diamond DeShields along with Allisha GrayStephanie Mavunga and Jessica Washington. 

The four Tar Heel recruits are ranked in top 25 according to ESPN.

“I know down the road as these kids get experience, they’re just going to get better and better,” she said.

Gray, who’s a lefty, is an impressive wing player, while Mavunga is solid on the inside.  Washington has the potential to be a first-class point guard according to scouting reports.

But the star-watch is on DeShields. She looks to be the total package with a midrange jumper and 3-point shot, and the ability to attack the lane and finish at the rim.

Carolina finished second in the ACC, received a No. 3 seed in the NCAA tournament, and made it to the Sweet 16, losing to Delaware—a great improvement after failing to receive an invitation to the ’12 tournament.

“We want to get back to ACC Championships and Final Fours.” Hatchell said.