Cole Cloer, a highly sought-after four-star small forward standing at an impressive 6 feet 8 inches, has announced a significant change in his basketball journey. He will be transferring to IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, for his upcoming senior season. This move marks a new chapter for the Greensboro, North Carolina native, who has already established himself as a prominent talent in the basketball world.
A Look Back at Caldwell Academy
Prior to his move to IMG Academy, Cloer spent his first three years of high school basketball at Caldwell Academy. During his time there, he consistently demonstrated his skills and potential, becoming a key player for the Eagles. Last season, he averaged an impressive 18.9 points, 7.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game. His contributions were instrumental in the team's success, as they finished the 2024-2025 season with a remarkable 26-9 record. The Eagles reached the North Carolina Independent School Athletic Association (NCISAA) Class 2A Championship Game, showcasing their competitive spirit and talent.
College Recruitment Heats Up
Cloer's decision to transfer comes shortly after he revealed his top eight college choices. The list includes some of the most prestigious basketball programs in the nation: Alabama, Florida, Louisville, Indiana, North Carolina, North Carolina State, UConn, and Virginia. This impressive list reflects the high level of interest and recognition Cloer has garnered from college recruiters.
He has scheduled two official visits for the fall, indicating his intent to carefully consider his options before making a final decision. He plans to visit the University of Florida on September 6 and the University of Alabama on October 18. These visits will provide him with valuable insights into the programs, coaching staff, and campus environments, helping him determine the best fit for his collegiate basketball career.
Prior to announcing his transfer, Cloer took an unofficial visit to North Carolina State. He expressed his appreciation for the visit, highlighting the positive experience he had with Coach (Wade) and the coaching staff.
Joining a Strong IMG Academy Program
Cloer will now be joining a competitive IMG Academy squad that is eager to build upon its recent successes. In the 2024-2025 season, IMG Academy achieved a 20-8 record and earned a spot in the Chipotle Nationals Play-in Tournament. Although their season ended with a loss against the 9-seed Wasatch Academy Tigers, the Ascenders demonstrated their strength by securing notable wins against formidable opponents such as DME Academy, Oak Hill Academy, and Montverde Academy.
Rankings and Recognition
Cloer's talent and potential have not gone unnoticed by recruiting analysts. He is currently rated as the No. 32 overall player, the No. 15 ranked small forward, and the No. 7 ranked player in the state of Florida for the Class of 2026, according to 247Sports. These rankings underscore his status as one of the top prospects in his class.
A Talented Roster at IMG Academy
Cloer will be joining a roster brimming with talent at IMG Academy. His new teammates include four-star senior point guard Trey Beamer, four-star senior shooting guard Jermal Jones Jr, four-star senior power forward Cody Peck, and junior center Zain Majeed. The addition of Cloer to this already strong lineup is expected to further elevate the team's competitiveness and potential for success.
What to Expect
Cole Cloer's transfer to IMG Academy marks an exciting new chapter in his basketball career. He will be looking to refine his skills, compete against top-tier competition, and further enhance his prospects for college basketball. His senior season at IMG Academy will undoubtedly be closely watched by college recruiters and basketball enthusiasts alike, as he continues to develop into a promising young talent. His blend of size, skill, and athleticism makes him a player to watch in the coming years.
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