Phenom Hoops continues to bring attention to players that are part of the Class of 2025, and one forward that has really seen his stock rise quickly has been 2025 6’7 Preston Copeland from Raleigh Christian Academy.
But Copeland was one that grabbed our attention over two years ago and is one that we featured again last year. He also is the younger brother of Isaac Copeland who was from Raleigh and who also went to Nebraska. When talking about Copeland’s game, here is what we said back in March of 2022:
“Already possessing great size for his age, Copeland checks off a lot of early boxes in a big man with his style of play, what he provides, and his upside. As far as his game goes right now, we are talking about a 6’7 long and athletic forward that makes himself even bigger with his tremendous wingspan, providing as a rim protector but also a force at the rim. Copeland has a polished feel at a young age and tremendous instincts, and not to mention he creates problems with his physical feel. If you add all that onto how he is able to move his feet and is not afraid to defend out on the perimeter, Copeland is going to be a name you will want to learn about sooner rather than later.”
And now we fast forward to today, Copeland has seen his stock rise even more and it doesn’t look like it will be slowing down anytime soon. The sophomore forward has racked up offers from Radford, Charleston, and a big one from Nebraska. We caught up with him to learn about his season and his latest offer.
Phenom: How has everything been going for you this season'
Copeland: This season has been going particularly well for me as a player, but as a team, we could do better. Some tough losses have us at a negative record at the moment, so that is just something we are trying to get through.
Phenom: What has been your mentality this season'
Copeland: My mentality is just to do everything to the best of my ability, on or off the court, which has helped me tremendously.
Phenom: What have you been hoping to show more about your game'
Copeland: What I’ve been trying to show more of in my game is just the ability to space out the floor, as I am actually a good shooter and I don’t feel like I exploit that enough in-game.
Phenom: What also are areas you are still working on'
Copeland: Areas I’m working on is just trying to get from more of a 3 or 4, to a 2 or 3 player. Handling the ball, making plays, stretching the floor, and multiple other factors will help me get to that level.
Phenom: Recruitment has gone well. What was it like to get that big offer from Nebraska'
Copeland: Honestly, it was a surprise but also very motivating. It just pushes me to keep going for more.
Phenom: What did they say they liked about your game'
Copeland: What Nebraska liked most about my game is aggression. I go for every loose ball, every time I’m even near the rim it is always a dunk, or at least an attempt, and my ability to run the floor.
