NC State, UNC Hoops Have Recent Recruiting Battles

Wolfpack and Tar Heels vie for top talent as new coaches arrive

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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NC State and North Carolina have been competing for top basketball recruits, with several players transferring between the two programs in recent years. The arrival of new coaches at both schools, including Will Wade at NC State, has intensified the recruiting rivalry between the in-state rivals.

Why it matters

The recruiting battles between NC State and UNC are a reflection of the intense rivalry between the two basketball powerhouses. As the programs reload with new talent, the outcomes of these recruiting wars can have a major impact on the future success of both teams.

The details

Several key players have been at the center of the recruiting battles, including Jarin Stevenson, a 6-10 junior forward who transferred from Alabama to UNC. Stevenson was previously recruited by NC State before choosing Alabama, and his decision to join the Tar Heels has added another layer to the rivalry. Additionally, NC State landed Tre Holloman, a senior guard, after he was linked to UNC in the transfer portal. The Wolfpack also defeated several top programs, including UNC, to land freshman small forward Cole Cloer, who is redshirting this season.

  • NC State hosts North Carolina at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Lenovo Center.
  • Stevenson had a season-high 19 points and went 3 of 4 on three-pointers in a recent win over Pittsburgh.

The players

Jarin Stevenson

A 6-10, 215-pound junior forward for North Carolina who previously played at Alabama. Stevenson was a key recruiting target for both NC State and UNC.

Will Wade

The new head coach of the NC State Wolfpack, who has been actively recruiting against UNC for top talent.

Hubert Davis

The head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels, who has continued to recruit Stevenson and other players targeted by NC State.

Tre Holloman

A senior guard who transferred from the transfer portal to NC State, after being linked to UNC.

Cole Cloer

A freshman small forward who NC State landed, beating out UNC and other top programs.

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What they’re saying

“When goes go down, it gives an opportunity to other guys.”

— Will Wade, NC State Head Coach (on3.com)

“I've known Jarin since probably high school and his family. It was a joy to recruit him the first time. Even though he decided to go to Alabama, the relationship with him and his family continued to stay the same.”

— Hubert Davis, North Carolina Head Coach (on3.com)

What’s next

NC State and UNC will face off on Tuesday, February 16th at 7 p.m. at the Lenovo Center, providing another opportunity for the recruiting rivals to battle on the court.

The takeaway

The recruiting battles between NC State and UNC highlight the intense rivalry between the two basketball programs, as they compete to land the top talent in the state and region. The arrival of new coaches at both schools has only heightened the competition, setting the stage for future recruiting wars and on-court matchups between the Wolfpack and Tar Heels.