Basketball practice for the upcoming season at NC State officially begins on September 21, marking 42 days before the first scheduled game, according to NCAA regulations. However, Assistant Coach Matt Driscoll noted in a September 9 interview that preparations have been underway since August 17, coinciding with the start of fall classes.
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As practice approaches, attention turns to the roster, particularly to sophomore Preston Edmead, who is anticipated to be a key player this season. Edmead, a 4-star transfer from Hofstra, was ranked #156 nationally and hails from Easthampton, MA. He has family ties in North Carolina; his brother, Aaren, played for NC A&T from 2017 to 2019.
In his freshman year at Hofstra, Edmead earned several accolades including CAA Rookie of the Year and was a Second Team All-CAA selection. He led his team with impressive stats: 16.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, shooting 40.1% from the field and 38.7% from three-point range.
Last season saw Edmead achieve notable highs, scoring 26 points in a game and reaching double figures in 29 contests. His performance included hitting six three-pointers in an NCAA tournament game against Alabama and recording up to nine rebounds in multiple games.
CBB Analytics ranks Edmead highly in offensive efficiency, describing him as a high-usage player with a strong shooting ability. Although his rebounding stats are low when compared to all Division 1 players, they improve significantly against similar positions, placing him in the 75th percentile for guards. His defensive effort has also earned praise, with coaches noting his tenacity on the court.
Edmead has been recognized nationally, earning a spot at No. 29 in College Basketball Report’s rankings of the top sophomores for the upcoming season. Analysts have commended his unique capabilities, including his adeptness outside shooting and clutch performance. Matthew Winick noted the growth in Edmead's game despite being new to Division 1 basketball, while Patrick Stacy highlighted his potential for standout performances this year.
Defensively, Coach Justin Gainey lauded Edmead’s intensity, likening him to a 'junkyard dog'—effective in applying pressure and disrupting opponents' plays.
Expectations are high for Edmead as he is expected to start at point guard this season. Analysts predict he will be a fan favorite, with the potential to significantly contribute to the team’s success and become a popular jersey choice among supporters. As the season approaches, Edmead’s development and performance are eagerly anticipated.