Combine Academy
Program Scout Report
Overview
Combine Academy has established itself as a rising force in prep basketball since its founding, operating as an independent program that focuses on developing elite talent. Under strong leadership and with a growing national reputation, the program attracts high-level prospects seeking intensive basketball development and college preparation.
Coaching Staff
Head coach Jeff McInnis brings exceptional credentials as both a former UNC Tar Heel (1993-1996) and NBA draft pick, selected 37th overall by Denver in 1996. His coaching resume includes founding the successful AAU organization Team Charlotte in 2009, earning 17U National Coach of the Year honors in 2015, and compiling an impressive 81-15 career record since taking over at Combine Academy in 2019.
Player Development
The program demonstrates strong player development with a current roster featuring nationally ranked prospects across multiple classes. Combine Academy has built a reputation for elevating player rankings and facilitating successful college placements, with their development pipeline producing Division I talent consistently.
Culture & Academics
Combine Academy provides a focused environment that balances academic preparation with elite basketball training. The program emphasizes both on-court excellence and college readiness in a structured setting.
Recruiting Outlook
The current roster showcases the program's recruiting strength with top 2026 prospects Yohance Connor (ranked #115 nationally) and Lattimore Ford (#171), alongside solid 2025 contributors Preston Copeland (#341) and CJ Purdie (#386). This multi-class depth indicates strong recruiting momentum and suggests continued program growth under McInnis's leadership.
Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team
Coaching Staff
Jeff McInnis
Head Coach
Jeff McInnis brings a wealth of basketball experience to his role as head basketball coach at Combine Academy. A former University of North Carolina Tar Heel who played from 1993-1996, McInnis was selected 37th overall in the 1996 NBA Draft by the Denver Nuggets following his college career. McInnis has established himself as a prominent figure in North Carolina's basketball community through his dedication to developing young talent. In 2009, he founded the AAU organization Team Charlotte, where his exceptional coaching abilities earned him 17U National Coach of the Year honors in 2015. Since joining Combine Academy in Lincolnton, North Carolina in 2019, McInnis has transformed the program into a powerhouse. During his three-year tenure from 2019 to 2022, he compiled an impressive 81-15 overall record, including a notable 26-7 mark in the 2019-20 season. His success stems from his commitment to helping young basketball players develop their skills while building a winning culture that attracts top prospects to the program.
Achievements & Facilities
Championships
- 🏆 Competitive North Carolina prep program
Facilities
Combine Academy Campus - Lincolnton, North Carolina
Notable Achievements
["State Champions"]
Recent Moves
Last 60 days- COMMITMENTCJ PurdieMar 27
Player appears to be announcing commitment to Montana State, referencing suiting up for 2025-26 season with Bobcats hashtags
