Wolfpack Reloads with Versatile Transfer Talent

NC State basketball is gearing up for an exciting new chapter as they open the 2024-25 season in just two weeks. After a rollercoaster 2023-24 campaign that culminated in an improbable ACC Championship and Final Four run, the Wolfpack is hitting the reset button with a revamped roster.

Wolfpack Poised for Continued Success with Influx of Talent

Retooled Roster Brings Depth and Versatility

Head coach Kevin Keatts has been busy in the offseason, retooling the Wolfpack roster with eight new additions - five transfers and three freshmen - to complement a solid core of returning players from last year's memorable run. This new-look team will take the court on November 4th against USC Upstate, immediately following the raising of two championship banners in the rafters.With so many fresh faces and evolving roles for several returning players, it's crucial to take a closer look at each individual on the 2024-25 Wolfpack roster. We'll start with the player donning the No. 0 jersey - Mike James.

Mike James Brings Wealth of ACC Experience

As a member of the 2021 recruiting class, the 6-foot-5, 200-pound guard was ranked the No. 81 player in the country and the No. 14 small forward, according to the 247Sports Composite. While his natural position is shooting guard, James' versatile skill set and scoring ability from multiple levels make him a valuable asset.James originally committed to Louisville under former head coach Chris Mack, but a torn Achilles tendon in his left leg during preseason practice prior to his freshman year forced him to redshirt and never suit up for the Cardinals. He opted to stay with the program through the transition to the Kenny Payne era, even playing his redshirt sophomore season, before ultimately deciding to transfer after last season.Now with two years of eligibility remaining, James brings a wealth of ACC experience to the Wolfpack. He started all 32 games for the Cardinals over the past two seasons, averaging double-digit scoring in each campaign. While his efficiency dipped slightly in his sophomore year, James maintained his prowess as a free-throw shooter, ranking among the conference leaders.

Hybrid Forward Role Suits James' Skillset

James' combination of size, shooting touch, and rebounding ability make him an ideal fit for Keatts' system as a "hybrid forward." At 6-foot-5 with a muscular frame, he has the versatility to play both the two and four positions, but will likely settle in at the three to provide the Wolfpack with a well-rounded presence on the wing.Over the years, Keatts' most successful teams have featured a standout hybrid forward at the three spot, players like Torin Dorn, CJ Bryce, and Casey Morsell. While they may not always be the team's leading scorer, these players excel at the dirty work and contribute in a variety of ways, often stuffing the stat sheet.As James enters the transfer portal, both he and former Louisville teammate Brandon Huntley-Hatfield were seeking a program where they could prioritize team success over individual accolades. With his ability to stretch the floor, crash the boards, and fill multiple roles, James appears to be an ideal fit for the Wolfpack over the next two seasons.