The growing basketball program at N.C. State has just become much more exciting. Toni Bryant, a five-star power forward and one of the best players in the 2026 recruiting class, is scheduled to have an unofficial meeting with incoming head coach Will Wade.
This visit might be a significant turning point for NC State’s recruiting momentum because Bryant is one of the most popular names in high school basketball.
5-Star Forward Toni Bryant to Visit NC State Amid Recruiting Surge
According to 247Sports and On3, Toni Bryant, the 6’9″, 205-pound star from North Tampa Christian Academy (FL), is ranked No. 3 among power forwards in the 2026 class and No. 12 overall in the country. His impressive junior year stats include 11. rebounds, 6.5 blocks, 2.1 assists, 1.5 steals, and 21 points per game.
2026 5⭐️ Toni Bryant will take an unofficial visit to NC State and Will Wade tomorrow, a source told @LeagueRDY.
Bryant is one of the top prospects in the 2026 class and has taken official visits to Boston College and Cal thus far.
#12 in the ESPN60. pic.twitter.com/0IyFaoZBqP
— Sam Kayser (@247HSHoops) April 26, 2025
Major programs throughout the nation have noticed Bryant’s remarkable combination of size, talent, and athleticism. Several bluebloods, including Kansas, Texas, Michigan, Florida, and North Carolina, have extended him offers.
Bryant had already made unofficial excursions to Florida and Florida State and official visits to Boston College and Cal before traveling to Raleigh. N.C. State now has an opportunity to make an impression, and head coach Will Wade is doing all he can to ensure Bryant feels welcome.
Since coming to N.C. State after the conclusion of March Madness, Will Wade has been actively changing the Wolfpack’s roster and recruiting pipeline. Wade, who recently had successful spells at VCU and LSU, is known as a tenacious recruiter who doesn’t hesitate to pursue the top players.
In a few months, he created a stir by bringing big transfer portal players like Tre Holloman (Michigan State) and Terrance Arceneaux (Houston). Additionally, he had a significant victory by snagging five-star shooting guard Matthew Able, one of the best high school recruits NC State has acquired in decades.
Bringing Toni Bryant into the fold would take Wade’s first recruiting class from impressive to potentially program-changing.
How Toni Bryant Fits N.C. State’s Vision
Every contemporary college basketball team aspires to have a forward like Toni Bryant. He has exceptional rebounding skills, can spread the field offensively, and can defend the rim. His defensive and motor instincts are particularly strong, which would be ideal under Wade’s aggressive, fast-paced style.
Bryant would immediately propel NC State into ACC title talks when he joined a core that might include Matthew Able, returning veterans, and important transfers.
Additionally noteworthy is a personal connection: Bryant was a Southeast Elite grassroots program member, the same team that produced Able. As Bryant proceeds with his recruitment process, NC State may benefit significantly from that acquaintance with a possible future colleague.
RELATED RECRUITING: No. 5 Ranked 5-Star Recruit Anthony Thompson Shows Off Final List of Offers He Is Considering
Bryant’s unofficial visit to Raleigh is significant and vital. NC State has a great chance to showcase its renovated facilities, fervent supporters, and Wade’s plan to bring the program back to national prominence.
Securing a commitment down the road would be a huge statement that the Wolfpack is back in the national debate and here to stay. Getting a visit from a player of Bryant’s quality is a victory in and of itself.
This weekend, all eyes will be on Raleigh, and if all goes according to plan, N.C. State may be about to pull off a huge recruiting move.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
