A few weeks ago, NC State basketball coaches visited Blair Academy (N.J.) to evaluate Deron Rippey Jr., a potential 2026 offer target. Rippey currently ranks No. 19 overall and No. 5 among point guards in the 247Sports 2026 Composite. The 6-foot-2, 175-pound five-star prospect has also named the Wolfpack staff as one of the programs he’s hearing from most at this stage in his recruitment.
Given that, it’s no surprise that at least one member of Will Wade’s staff was in attendance to watch Rippey stand out for New Heights during this weekend’s 3SSB session in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
As reported by HS Top Recruits on Saturday, NC State was among a strong showing of college programs in attendance, joined by coaches from powerhouse schools such as Duke, UNC, Kentucky, UConn, Virginia, Kansas, Alabama, Arkansas, Texas, Illinois, Michigan State, Miami, Louisville, and several others.
Through three games against elite competition in Iowa this weekend, Deron Rippey Jr. is averaging 15.7 points while also turning heads with his rebounding and overall activity. Beyond the stat sheet, the explosive guard has showcased his quickness on defense, consistently generating steals and creating havoc on the other end of the court.
As for NC State basketball, the program has yet to secure a commitment from a 2026 prospect — but with plenty of time left in the cycle, that’s far from unusual.
Leave a Reply