Trey Parker: From Viral Sensation to Wolfpack Standout

N.C. State basketball's Trey Parker has long been known for his electrifying dunks and "Showtime Trey" persona, but the freshman guard is determined to prove he's more than just a social media sensation. As he embarks on his college career with the Wolfpack, Parker is ready to showcase his well-rounded skills and cement his place as a true basketball player.

Unleashing the Full Potential of a Rising Star

Embracing the "Showtime Trey" Moniker

Trey Parker's journey to N.C. State has been marked by his captivating on-court performances, which have earned him the "Showtime Trey" nickname. The Fayetteville native first embraced this persona after a memorable one-handed slam dunk as a seventh-grader at Mac Williams Middle School. From that moment on, Parker has continued to build upon his reputation as an electrifying player, wowing audiences with his elite athleticism and high-flying moves above the rim."From there to now, I've just been building on my name and building on myself," Parker said. "Everybody's been calling me 'Showtime' with all these things I can do, but at the end of the day, I'm just giving my grace to God and just working myself out."

Transitioning from Viral Sensation to College Standout

As Parker enters his freshman season with the Wolfpack, he's determined to prove that he's more than just a social media sensation. The 6-foot-1, 165-pound guard arrives at N.C. State as a three-star recruit in the 2024 class, with a pedigree that includes a successful high school career and two seasons with the prestigious Overtime Elite program in Atlanta."I'm ready to show a lot of people I'm more than just highlights," Parker said during the team's annual media day. "I'm my own person. At the end of the day, I just go out there and be myself, and give 'em what they want to see."

Embracing the Challenges of College Basketball

The transition from high school to college basketball is never an easy one, and Parker is well aware of the adjustments he'll need to make. He's had "meaningful conversations" with head coach Kevin Keatts about the importance of maintaining grades, establishing a consistent schedule, and bringing his best effort to every practice."Our freshmen are really talented. … Trey Parker is a combo guard that can play (point) and (shooting guard), super athletic and very quick," Keatts said at ACC Tipoff. "The biggest thing for all freshmen, including my freshmen, they have to learn to compete every day. I think you see moments where maybe on a Monday or Tuesday, they're really good. Thursday and Friday, they struggle. It's more about being consistent."

Developing a Well-Rounded Game

While Parker's athleticism and highlight-reel plays have made him a fan favorite, he's determined to prove he's more than just a dunker. Senior guard Jayden Taylor, one of N.C. State's leaders, has been impressed by Parker's growth in areas like playmaking and defense."Trey, that's my guy. The one thing about Trey, he loves to compete. He's a really big competitor and I've seen him grown in his playmaking," Taylor said. "Him getting stronger in defending, with going from high school to college, it's an adjustment. It's not gonna happen overnight, but I think his ability to just wanna learn more, and knowing it's gonna be an adjustment, that's been eye opening to me."

Embracing the "Showtime Trey" Legacy

Even as he works to develop a well-rounded game, Parker isn't shying away from the "Showtime Trey" moniker that has become synonymous with his name. In fact, he's embracing it and promises to put on a show for Wolfpack fans this season."Fans can expect to see a lot of showtime, a lot of showtime," Parker said with a smile. "That's what they call me, so you're gonna see a lot of (jersey No.) 5 this year."As Trey Parker embarks on his college basketball journey, he's determined to prove he's more than just a viral sensation. With his elite athleticism, competitive drive, and a willingness to learn and grow, the Wolfpack faithful can expect to see a dynamic and well-rounded player who is ready to make his mark on the court.