After months and months of travel ball, camp season is finally upon us. Although our (Phenom Hoops) camps don't start until September, there's no better way to kick things off than the prestigious CP3 Rising Stars Camp. It's widely regarded as the top collection of talent among rising freshmen throughout the country. Each year, the event hosts a slew of eventual pros (with even more former NBA guys wandering around the gym) and countless guys who will end up at the high-major level. Hopefully events like this will help kids understand the general value that comes from being seen and performing well in a camp setting. Let's take a closer look at the representatives for the Carolina's in the CP3 Rising Stars Top 20 contest (2026)'

6'7 Treven Raymon (South Pointe)

Quite possibly the top prospect in South Carolina, Tre Raymon continues to showcase a lot of ability'regardless of setting or surrounding teammates. He showed constant positive flashes throughout the summer season, despite playing up two age groups most of the time. Raymon is a long, wiry, fairly versatile forward prospect with a quality blend of IQ, skill, and athleticism. He moves very well for his size (especially for his age), and is capable of naturally causing matchup problems on both ends of the floor. Raymon is a capable shooter, finisher, cutter, rebounder, and defender with useful creation instincts. Though already talented, the upside is still very clear. Raymon could easily be among the next wave of notable prospects to emerge from the Palmetto State. 

6'7 Elton Smith Jr. (Cardinal Newman)

There aren't a ton of premier big men in South Carolina's Class of 2026, but Elton Smith is clearly asserting himself as noteworthy talent. He's a big, strong, mobile post prospect with a sturdy frame and a willingness to utilize his body to overwhelm opponents on both ends of the floor. Smith is a quality rebounder, finisher, and shot-altering presence who displays fluidity, toughness, and an unselfish approach. He's a useful finisher from the post, offering an enticing blend of touch, power, and patience. Smith also runs the floor well in transition and understands how to excel within a role. He's trending as a top prospect in South Carolina, and should only continue to turn heads over the coming years. 

6'3 Ashton Pierce (North Meck)

The state of North Carolina always has talented representatives in the prestigious 'Top 20' game, and Ashton Pierce showed as much ability as anyone in his path to making the roster. His impressive combination of IQ, size, polish, vision, and creation skills make him an incredibly difficult assignment for most opponents. Pierce can comfortably run a team, set up others, and control the overall pace of a game. However, his smooth, effortless three-level scoring prowess might be the most appealing part of his identity. Given his craftiness and shot-making ability, Pierce is able to continually mix it up from all levels and dominate an offense if needed. He's also a solid athlete with quality defensive instincts. Pierce has all the tools to be a highly coveted prospect.

5'8 Dionte Neal (Reidsville)

No matter the time, place, or situation, Dionte Neal has consistently proven himself as a difference-maker on the hardwood. He's somewhat small, but can absolutely take over a game with his electric scoring prowess. Neal is extremely quick, crafty, and poised with the ball in his hands. He can create for himself or others from legitimately anywhere on the floor, displaying vision, a tight handle, and sharp change of direction. Neal scores the ball at a high, yet efficient volume from anywhere on the floor. He's able to force a lot of turnovers at the point of attack defensively, which typically leads to transition play and easy fast-break buckets. Neal is as polished as anyone in attendance, and will be exciting to follow at Reidsville.