NC State Lands a Game-Changer: Cole Cloer’s Commitment Shakes Up College Basketball Recruiting
Posted Oct 10, 2025
In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the college basketball world, NC State has secured a commitment from Cole Cloer, a recruit whose talent places him among the elite. But here’s where it gets even more significant: Cloer’s pledge marks the Wolfpack’s highest-ranked commitment since the days of Dennis Smith Jr., a name synonymous with excellence on the court. This isn’t just a win for NC State—it’s a statement.
Cloer joins Matt Able as the crown jewel of the Will Wade era, and together, they represent the program’s second top-30 recruit since Wade took the helm in April. And this is the part most people miss: Securing Cloer wasn’t just about adding a star player; it was about outmaneuvering other powerhouse programs still in the running. For Wade and NC State, this is an enormous accomplishment—one that signals a shift in the recruiting landscape.
But here’s the controversial question: Can NC State sustain this momentum and build a championship-caliber roster around Cloer and Able? Or will they struggle to keep up with the recruiting juggernauts like Kentucky, who are hosting elite recruits for events like Big Blue Madness this weekend? Speaking of Kentucky, the Wildcats are expected to welcome a five-star trio, further solidifying their reputation as a recruiting powerhouse. Meanwhile, top-30 recruit Latrell Allmond has narrowed his list to five schools, with Indiana, Maryland, Oklahoma State, and Tennessee still in the mix. And let’s not forget five-star guard Tyran Stokes, who’s down to five schools, with Kentucky emerging as a favorite. Elsewhere, Michigan State landed a commitment from four-star power forward Julius Avent, a 6-foot-7 standout from Bergen Catholic.
Here’s the bold truth: Cole Cloer’s commitment isn’t just a win for NC State—it’s a challenge to the status quo. But will it be enough to elevate the Wolfpack to the top tier of college basketball? That’s the million-dollar question. What do you think? Is NC State on the verge of something special, or will they remain in the shadow of recruiting giants like Kentucky? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take!
