In the competitive world of high school basketball, 2026 NC State basketball recruit target Latrell Almond has been making waves. The young talent from John Marshall High School in Virginia has been a standout player this season, leading his undefeated team with impressive averages of 21.8 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. Recently, Almond showcased his skills at the John Wall Holiday Invitational in Raleigh, where he narrowly missed a double-double in a decisive victory over Clayton High School.

Almond's Stellar Performance at the John Wall Holiday Invitational

In the picturesque setting of North Carolina's capital city, the Coby White Bracket tournament unfolded at Broughton High School, just a stone's throw away from the NC State campus. On Thursday afternoon, Latrell Almond, the 6-foot-8 forward, demonstrated his prowess on the court during an opening quarterfinal match against the Clayton High School Comets. Despite facing stiff competition, Almond contributed significantly to the Justices' 70-44 triumph, recording nine points, 10 rebounds, and one steal in 26 minutes of play. His former teammate Dennis Parker Jr., now an NC State guard, would undoubtedly have felt proud watching Almond's performance.

The Justices (8-0) are set to continue their tournament run, facing the winner of the Sidwell Friends School and Southern High School matchup in the semifinals scheduled for Saturday afternoon. As the spotlight shines on this promising athlete, many eyes are also on his future college destination. Ranked as a four-star prospect by 247Sports, Almond holds the No. 61 overall position and is fifth among centers. Although he plans to make his decision next year, his connections to NC State, including unofficial visits and interest from Coach Kevin Keatts, suggest that the Wolfpack could be a strong contender for his commitment.

From a journalist's perspective, it's clear that Latrell Almond's journey is just beginning. His performances not only highlight his individual talent but also underscore the importance of nurturing young athletes who can contribute meaningfully to both their high school teams and future collegiate programs. The attention from top-tier universities like NC State speaks volumes about the potential impact players like Almond can have on the sport. As we watch his career unfold, it's exciting to think about the contributions he may bring to whichever program he ultimately chooses.