Kate Harpring Named Naismith Semifinalist, Continues to Build Star Power Ahead of UNC Debut
ATLANTA - The spotlight keeps getting brighter for Kate Harpring - and she keeps rising to meet it.
The North Carolina signee has been named a semifinalist for the Jersey Mike's Naismith Trophy Girls’ High School Player of the Year, putting her among the top 10 high school players in the nation. It’s another major accolade for the standout guard out of Atlanta, who’s quickly becoming one of the most decorated recruits in UNC Women’s Basketball history.
Harpring, one of two signees in the Tar Heels’ 2026 class, is set to arrive in Chapel Hill next season - and she’s bringing serious firepower with her. At 5-foot-10, the point guard has been a dominant force for Marist Academy, recently crossing the 3,000-point mark for her high school career. That kind of scoring milestone doesn’t just happen - it’s the product of relentless consistency, elite skill, and a high basketball IQ.
And the accolades haven’t stopped there. Just last week, Harpring was named a McDonald’s All-American, making her the sixth player to earn that honor under head coach Courtney Banghart.
For a program that’s been steadily climbing back into national prominence, that kind of recruiting success is no small thing. Harpring’s commitment is a statement - and so is her résumé.
She’s currently ranked the No. 1 player in the Class of 2026 by 274Sports and sits at No. 4 on ESPN’s list. That kind of top-tier billing speaks volumes about her two-way impact and leadership on the floor. Harpring isn't just putting up numbers - she’s leading, she’s elevating her teammates, and she’s winning.
Last season, she averaged a jaw-dropping 32 points and 10 rebounds per game en route to being named the 2024-25 Gatorade Georgia Girls Basketball Player of the Year. That’s not just dominance - that’s next-level production in one of the most competitive high school hoops states in the country.
And the stage is only getting bigger. Harpring is set to suit up for Team USA at the 2026 Nike Hoop Summit this April in Portland, Oregon. It’s another chance for her to showcase her game against elite international competition - and another opportunity for Tar Heel fans to get a glimpse of what’s coming to Carmichael Arena.
With each accolade, Harpring’s star continues to rise. And if her high school career is any indication, she’s not just ready for the next level - she’s ready to lead it.