Rankings sourced from 247Sports, ESPN, On3, and Rivals. Learn how we aggregate data →
Scout Report
The sheer fluidity of a 6-foot-7 wing moving without the ball is often the first thing that grabs your attention on a prospect like Cole Cloer. He just glides. For a player still so early in his high school career, Cloer projects as one of those versatile pieces every coach wants to build around, a genuine swiss army knife on the perimeter who impacts winning in subtle but meaningful ways.
Background
Cloer hails from Bradenton, Florida, and has already immersed himself in the high-level environment at IMG Academy, a move that speaks volumes about his commitment to development. Playing his AAU ball on the Nike EYBL circuit, including appearances at Peach Jam, has pitted him against top-tier competition consistently. This exposure is crucial for a player of his age, forcing him to adapt and refine his game against peers who are often older and more physically mature. Being surrounded by other highly ranked prospects like Bamba Touray, Dylan Betts, and Arkansas commit Darius Acuff Jr. daily at IMG also means Cloer is constantly challenged, learning how to be effective even when not the primary option.
Playing Style
Cloer’s game is built on versatility and a natural feel for the flow of offense. He doesn't dominate the ball, preferring to operate within the structure and capitalize on opportunities that arise, whether that's a quick catch-and-shoot, a well-timed cut to the basket, or attacking a closeout. His decision-making with the ball is advanced for his class; he rarely forces tough shots or makes ill-advised passes, instead prioritizing efficiency. On the defensive end, his length and movement allow him to guard multiple positions on the perimeter, switching effectively and disrupting passing lanes. He brings a quiet intensity to both ends of the court, consistently making the right play without needing to be flashy. He’s the type of player who fills up a stat sheet without necessarily having the ball in his hands all the time, impacting the game with his movement, anticipation, and smart execution.
Strengths
His shooting stroke is clean, translating into consistent perimeter scoring, particularly as a spot-up shooter. That 6-foot-7 frame with good wingspan allows him to shoot over smaller defenders and finish around the rim effectively. He also possesses a good motor and defensive instincts, showing flashes of being a disruptive defender who can rebound and ignite transition opportunities. What really sets him apart at this stage is his maturity and basketball IQ; he understands spacing, makes smart cuts, and generally doesn't try to do too much.
Areas to Watch
To unlock his full potential, Cloer will need to add functional strength to his frame, which will help him absorb contact on drives and finish through traffic more consistently. Expanding his handle to create his own shot against more athletic, high-major defenders will also be key, allowing him to be more than just a complementary scorer. Developing a consistent pull-up game from the mid-range would make him a much harder cover.
Player Comparison
Watching Cloer, there are shades of a younger Otto Porter Jr. in his game. Both are 6-foot-7 wings with a smooth shooting stroke and a high basketball IQ who don't force their offense. Like Porter, Cloer has the length and defensive versatility to guard multiple positions and impact the game in numerous ways, even without being a primary ball-handler. He’s more of a glue guy who can score efficiently and make winning plays.
Recruitment
Cloer's recruitment is already broad, with 22 Division I offers from programs like NC State, Florida, UConn, Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. For a player in the 2027 class, this is an impressive list that indicates significant belief in his long-term potential. Given the early stage of his high school career, his commitment timeline is still several years out, and more offers are sure to follow as he continues to develop and refine his game at IMG. High-major programs prioritizing skilled, versatile wings will remain heavily in the mix, and he’ll have his pick of options when the time comes.
Projection
Cloer projects as a high-major starter who can contribute immediately with his shooting and defensive versatility. His ceiling could be a very valuable three-and-D wing in a Power Five conference, capable of guarding multiple spots and providing efficient offense. If he can add strength and expand his offensive package, there's certainly professional potential down the road, likely as a valuable role player who excels at understanding team concepts.
Updated Jul 1, 2026 · Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team
Career Journey
IMG Academy
PREP SCHOOL
Career Highlights
NC State 4⭐️ SF signee Cole Cloer is set to enroll early with the Wolfpack for the spring semester as he recovers from an injury
SIGNED! Welcome to the Pack, Cole Cloer
Top-25 Cole Cloer commits to NC State
Offers
22
NC State
Florida
UConn
Alabama
ArkansasOffers sourced from 247Sports and social media monitoring.
Social Activity
2026 Top-30 overall recruit Cole Cloer is taking an official visit to Florida this weekend, he tells @Rivals. https://t.co/PSnzJsHhEf https://t.co/BVk24Nn1F8
Cole Cloer of IMG Academy, a Top-30 prospect in the Class of 2026 — is taking an official visit to Florida this weekend per @TiptonEdits! 🐊 https://t.co/CvpUgaMnRC
Four-star SF @colecloerr is visiting @dhurley15 and @UConnMBB this weekend. Big visit for the Huskies.
2026 Top-30 recruit Cole Cloer has moved up his official visit to Alabama and is now visiting this week, he tells @Rivals. The 6-7 small forward will arrive in Tuscaloosa tomorrow night. https://t.co/S4VOlBcUf6 https://t.co/CZj38UckYf