The recruitment of 2026 standout Cole Cloer continues to heat up, as the talented forward has officially trimmed down his list and announced his Final 5 schools. One of the most highly regarded prospects in his class, Cloer has been a consistent name on the Phenom Hoops platform, impressing with his size, versatility, and overall impact on the court. With his recruitment now entering a pivotal stage, Phenom Hoops takes a closer look at the programs that made the cut and what each landing spot could mean for Cloer’s future.
Game Breakdown:
“Cloer has been a premier prospect in the country for quite some time, as he sits clearly as a Top 50 (Top 25 for some national outlets) throughout. Phenom Hoops has had the chance to watch Cloer more than many since being here in North Carolina. When you talk about his game, Cloer has shown time after time that he can be a clear weapon with upside left in his game. Cloer has a unique blend of skill, shot-making, and skill as a 6’7 prospect. He is at his best when he is decisive, whether that is getting to his spots for his jumper or attacking off the bounce quickly. Cloer’s ability to get to his spots and be a shot-maker from outside clearly attracts the eyes of college coaches, scoring from behind the arc with ease. However, Cloer has that gear that allows him to cover space, attack off the bounce, and get inside to finish strong and at the rim. He brings a smooth overall feel in being comfortable in operating from multiple levels, but he also does a great job in flourishing as a decision-maker and making the right plays. “
Thoughts On Top 5:
North Carolina
North Carolina was always an intriguing program when Cloer received the offer; many pegged him as a commitment to the Tar Heels as well. However, North Carolina may not sit where they once was early on. For UNC, Cloer is one who could fit well into their system with his shot-making ability, as well as landing a Top 50 prospect from the NC region. With Cloer’s size and range, he would be able to find opportunities in the system, but does UNC still stand out compared to others?
NC State
NC State has always been an interesting place and that heated up when Coach Wade and company came to Raleigh. Again, the Wolfpack have always been a fan favorite for Cloer growing up and Coach Wade has this program turning around quickly. Cloer could easily find opportunities with NC State, especially with the system they will be running. And to add on top of that, landing an NC prospect over UNC would go a long way.
Alabama
In my previous post about Cloer, I had mentioned that Alabama would be a program to keep a strong eye on. Though I still believe they are a sneaky program to watch, the commitments of Tarris Bouie and Christopher Washington Jr. could change things up a big, as spots are filling up for the Crimson Tide. The style of play would fit well for Cloer, allowing him to get to his spots and knock down shots, and put up points.
UConn
UConn is a team that I would be closely looking at. They have yet to land a recruit for 2026, and Cloer has spoken highly about Coach Hurley and the staff. This is a program that has continued to show its winning ways and has proven to not only put players in the league but also flourish with a style like Cloer. UConn continues to be a program that I would highly watch with Cloer and his recruitment.
Florida
Lastly, Florida made its list of five, and the defending national champions would love to make another splash in recruiting with a commitment from Cloer. As Cloer reported with On3, Coach Golden is a player’s coach and understands what it takes to win. And though they were able to land some key players and have some key returners, there could be opportunities for Cloer coming in and also playing in a style that could fit him in the SEC.