NC State
Scout Report
Standing 6-7 with guard skills and an impressive collection of 22 Division I offers, this versatile wing has already made his college choice and is poised to be a cornerstone piece for the Wolfpack.
Background
Hailing from Hillsborough, North Carolina, Cole Cloer made the significant move to IMG Academy to elevate his game on the national stage. The 2026 prospect has thrived in the elite prep environment, sharing the court with top-tier talent including highly-ranked big men Bamba Touray and Dylan Betts, along with Arkansas-bound point guard Darius Acuff Jr. His journey from North Carolina to the IMG Academy pipeline has positioned him as one of the most sought-after guards in his class.
Playing Style
Cloer's 6-7 frame at the shooting guard position gives him a distinct advantage, allowing him to play above the rim while maintaining the perimeter skills that make modern wings so valuable. His size-to-skill ratio creates matchup problems for opposing defenses, as he can shoot over smaller guards and use his quickness against bigger forwards. The versatility to play multiple positions makes him an ideal fit for today's positionless basketball, where length and basketball IQ are premium assets. Playing alongside elite talent at IMG Academy has sharpened his ability to complement star players while still asserting his own scoring presence.
Recruitment
With 22 Division I offers from prestigious programs including UConn, Kentucky, Alabama, Florida, Arkansas, Illinois, and Indiana, Cloer ultimately chose to stay close to home by committing to NC State. His decision gives the Wolfpack a versatile wing who should develop into a key contributor with his combination of size, skill, and basketball intelligence. The early commitment allows him to focus purely on development during his remaining prep seasons.
Updated Feb 17, 2026 · Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team
Offers
22
NC State
Committed
Chose NC State over 21 other offers
Florida
UConn
Alabama
Arkansas
Illinois