BREAKING: Top-25 senior recruit Cole Cloer has officially committed to NC State, marking a significant boost for Head Coach Will Wade as he builds the Wolfpack’s roster. Cloer, a talented 6-foot-7 small forward from North Carolina, made the announcement to ESPN just moments ago.
This commitment is a pivotal moment for NC State, as Cloer becomes the second top-25 recruit to join the program since Wade took the helm in March. “Choosing NC State was an easy decision for me,” Cloer revealed. “It’s the program I have supported since I was a kid.” His loyalty to the home team proved stronger than offers from UConn, Florida, and Alabama, as he expressed excitement about playing for the team he grew up cheering for.
Cloer emphasized the significance of representing his home state, stating, “Now I have the opportunity to represent the city and state that shaped who I am while competing in the ACC.” His enthusiasm for Coach Wade’s vision for the program was evident: “I’m excited to be part of the Red Reckoning that Coach Wade is building.”
The 2026 class continues to strengthen for NC State, with Cloer joining three-star center Trevon Carter-Givens, who committed last month. Cloer’s skill set is impressive; he has showcased his offensive versatility while playing at IMG Academy and led Team CP3 in scoring during the Nike EYBL regular season, averaging 16.7 points over 14 games.
As the No. 25 player in the SC Next 100 and the top player from North Carolina, Cloer’s arrival signals a new era for NC State basketball. His dynamic scoring ability, intelligent decision-making, and solid rebounding (4.7 rebounds per game) will undoubtedly make an immediate impact as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Wade has a track record of recruiting top talent at his previous coaching positions, and with Cloer’s commitment, the Wolfpack’s future looks bright. “Coach Wade is a proven winner with an elite staff,” Cloer stated, illustrating his belief in Wade’s leadership and the potential of the program. “I believe I can thrive under their leadership.”
Looking ahead, NC State is also eyeing five-star point guard Deron Rippey Jr., who is scheduled to visit the Wolfpack’s campus in November. This recruitment could further solidify Wade’s efforts to elevate NC State into a premier national program.
Fans and followers of NC State basketball should stay tuned for more developments as the Wolfpack continues to build momentum on the recruiting trail. Cloer’s commitment is just the latest in a series of exciting updates for the program, making it a thrilling time for Wolfpack supporters.
