The NBA’s Summer League season kicks off this Saturday, with several teams taking part in events in San Francisco and Salt Lake City, leading up to the league-wide NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas starting July 10. Among the rosters are ten players with roots in North Carolina high school basketball, showcasing the state’s strong basketball tradition.
One notable player is Caleb Stone-Carrawell, who played at Cox Mill High School. The 6-7 forward has had a diverse collegiate career, earning an impressive average of 13.4 points per game in his final season at Loyola Marymount, where he was also named to the West Coast Conference Honorable Mention All-Conference Team.
Rob Dillingham, another rising star from North Carolina, played at Combine Academy and had a unique high school experience across various teams, including Kanye West’s Donda Academy. After being drafted in the first round in 2024, he is expected to take on a greater role with the Minnesota Timberwolves this coming season.
C.J. Huntley, who played for Davidson Day, continued to shine in college at Appalachian State, where he scored over 1,300 points and was a second-team All-Sun Belt Conference selection. His contributions helped lead Davidson Day to a championship during his senior year.
Justin McKoy, a Panther Creek alumnus, has transitioned from collegiate play at Virginia and North Carolina to a successful season with Hawaii, where he averaged 12.4 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. He is expected to make a significant impact in the Summer League after a strong performance overseas.
Wendell Moore Jr., another Cox Mill standout, boasts an impressive high school record that includes multiple titles and accolades. Despite being selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2022, he has now played with teams like Detroit and Charlotte, showcasing his resilience and skill.
Drake Powell, who played at Northwood, has already made his mark in college, averaging 7.4 points in his one season at North Carolina before being selected by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2024 draft.
Other North Carolina products featured include Jalen Hood-Schifino, Kadin Shedrick, Jaden Springer, and Hunter Tyson, each bringing unique talents and experiences from their high school and collegiate careers.
The inclusion of these talented players in the Summer League not only underscores their individual skills and determination but also highlights North Carolina’s continuing legacy as a strong foundation for basketball talent. The excitement around their participation promises a thrilling Summer League season, as they strive to prove themselves and potentially secure spots in the NBA.