South Carolina basketball offers North Carolina forward during trip to Columbia

South Carolina basketball hosted class of 2026 forward Justin Caldwell for an unofficial visit this week. While on the visit, the four-star prospect earned a scholarship offer from the Gamecocks. Caldwell announced the offer on social media.

The Gamecocks join a growing list of scholarship offers that is now over 20 schools. Caldwell’s trip to USC’s campus was his second, as he took another unofficial visit for a game last season.

A Berean Baptist Academy product, Caldwell hails from Fayetteville, North Carolina. He has been a recent riser in the recruiting rankings and has played very well this summer on the circuit.

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As a player, Caldwell is a big-bodied forward. Listed at 6-9 and 240 pounds, he brings more versatility to the table than most players his size. Caldwell has the size and strength to have success near the basket, but he is skilled enough to make shots on the perimeter and put the ball on the floor to get by less nimble post players who aren’t used to being pulled away from the rim. His shot-making has improved to the point that he can make difficult looks off the dribble and against tight defense.

On the other end of the floor, Caldwell utilizes his length and instincts to block shots. He has enough athleticism to stay with most wing players and enough size to bang around in the post.

The On3 industry ranking considers Caldwell to be the No. 158 overall prospect in the country. He’s also No. 23 among power forwards and No. 9 in a strong class in North Carolina. ESPN views the Tar Heel State native as a four-star recruit.

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