Player: Latrell Allmond
School: O’Neal School
Class: 2026
Height: 6’7
AAU Team: Team Loaded VA
I’m going to start this article out saying this… there aren’t too many eighth-graders that we write about but this is a special occasion. With the playoffs all around the state of North Carolina, we recently went down the road to Gaston Day to check in on Gaston Day welcoming in the O’Neal School. It was an intriguing matchup and it gave us a glimpse of a name that we have been hearing around the state. There aren’t too many times you see an eighth-grader of the caliber and skill set of 2026 6’7 Latrell Allmond.
After the game, we had this to say: “2026 6’7 Lattrell Allmond (O’Neal) is another reason why I had to make it you there and we are telling you now, this young man is special! He has great size, understands the game light-years ahead of his age, is very fluid, has great size and wingspan, and has a big-time IQ. You see players young that find success but honestly, you don’t see a big man that usually possesses the skill set he has.”
To elaborate more on what we saw, Allmond already possesses great size for his age. He is very fluid on the court, moves well inside and out, and can be dangerous with his ability to step out and knock down shots with his mid-range shot and from three. You can also see that his IQ, his understanding of the game, and his leadership is already there. Allmond can score in a variety of ways, using wingspan to his advantage, showing confidence from multiple levels, displaying his ability to handle the ball, make smart decisions, and be a presence on both ends.
A lot of times, when you watch a player in his grade, you just don’t see too many players at his size have an understanding of the game and his ability. That is why Allmond is going to be a player that you will want to get familiar with quickly and truly believe he will be a national name for many in the coming years as he continues to work and develop on his game.
Speaking with Allmond:
How would you best describe your game'
“Very versatile. I can do everything I can post up and give you some perimeter game as well and some mid-post work.”
How has it been playing at the varsity level at an early age' How has it helped you develop'
“I had to get used to it at first with the fast pace of everything but it helped me understand the game way better and be more patient, knowing when to and to not make moves and believing the system.”