One of the top point guards in the state of North Carolina has been 2026 Dionte Neal, as he has shown to consistently impact the game and is a proven winner. Neal has racked up the accolades and championships, and he has attracted the eyes of college coaches. But he is also a standout on the football field, being a pest on the field and the court. He recently attended the NC Top 80, where we had this to say about him.
NC Top 80 Evaluation:
“Starting off, we look at a player who consistently propels winning in all possible settings, Dionte Neal. He’s a smart, unselfish point guard prospect with toughness, quickness, and a polished skillset. Neal is a natural leader by example and someone who visibly understands how to dictate the action as a primary creator. He touches the paint at will and makes intelligent decisions with the ball in his hands. In addition to finishing well for his size, Neal also knocks down jumpers from midrange and beyond the arc. Defensively, he’s a terrific on-ball defender who intercepts passing lanes and forces turnovers at a strong rate. Next in his development process is working on getting stronger, as it would make him a more imposing player. Coach Paris on Neal: “Dionte is a very quick guard who can create for others. He has the ability to knock down the three-pointer as well. True floor general who controls the offense.” Neal did a lot of things well during camp and should certainly maintain his status as one of the most winningest players across the state.”
We caught up with Neal to learn about some of the latest, as he is looking to be back on top once against at Reidsville, looking to improve his game, and he talks to us about the latest in his recruitment, both for football and basketball.
Phenom 1-on-1 with Neal:
Phenom: What is your excitement about this upcoming season? Being with all your guys again and looking to make a statement.
Neal: I’m very excited about this season coming into the year a year better and stronger, and looking to go back-to-back. We want to do something that has never been done before in school history. Definitely looking to make a statement.
Phenom: How has your game been developing overall? What areas are you focusing on?
Neal: The main thing I’m focusing on right now is getting my shot more consistent. I know a the next level with my size, I’m going to have to be a knockdown shooter so that is the main thing.
Phenom: You are being recruited both in football and basketball. What offers do you hold for basketball and football? And who has been showing interest your way for basketball?
Neal: Basketball, I have Appalachian State, UNCG, North Carolina A&T, High Point, Central, Hampton, Norfolk State, and Stetson. For football, I hold Western Kentucky, East Tennessee State, North Carolina, and Bethune-Cookman. I have been receiving interest from Liberty and Richmond, but after Peach Jam, I talked to Auburn, so those are my most recent ones.
Phenom: Do you have any planned trips coming up?
Neal: Planning on going to North Carolina next Saturday when they play NC State. I went to Appalachian State last month and UNCG the month before then.
Phenom: Obviously very talented in both sports. Are you leaning more one way or the other, or hoping to play both at the next level?
Neal: I want to play both at the next level but if I’m not, I’m probably going to stick with basketball.