Cunane Makes It Official

RALEIGH – Reigning Atlantic Coast Conference Coach of the Year Wes Moore and the NC State women's basketball team picked up a strong commitment on the first day of the early signing period Wednesday, as Elissa Cunane signed a National Letter of Intent to join the Wolfpack beginning with the 2018-19 season.
 
Elissa Cunane | 6-5 Post | Summerfield, N.C. | Northern Guilford High School
Sitting No. 21 nationally in the class of 2018 Prospects Nation rankings and fifth at her position, Elissa Cunane joins the Wolfpack as a four-star post player with a scout's grade of 95. A native of Summerfield, N.C., Cunane attends Northern Guilford High School where she was named the 2016 HSXtra Girls Basketball Player of the Year.
 
During her most recent junior season, Cunane averaged 20.3 points, 12.7 rebounds, 3.2 blocks, 2.7 assists, and 2.2 steals per game for a Northern Guilford Nighthawks team that posted an incredible 31-1 record en route to winning the North Carolina 3A Championship 66-64 over Hickory Ridge on March 11 in Chapel Hill.

Wes Moore (NC State head coach): "We are really excited about Elissa Cunane. First of all, her size and athleticism are things that we really need. She plays harder than any 6-5 kid I have ever seen. That is exciting. She is going to set a tone and lead with her effort. With the loss of Chelsea (Nelson) and Akela (Maize) to graduation (at the end of the 2017-18 season), she is someone who can help us on the block and give us presence inside, but she has also worked very hard on expanding her game. I trust her in the trail up spot to knock down the three and be able to attack off the bounce. She is an all-around great player and great person, and we are excited to have her join the Wolfpack."
 
Keil Moore (National recruiting analyst for Prospects Nation): "Cunane had one of the best summers of any player in the country. She is a versatile player who can handle the ball, make plays on the perimeter, shoot it from a distance, and score around the rim. She will be tough for teams to match up with."
 
Bret McCormick (Talent evaluator & publisher of All Star Girls Report): "Athletic, long, uses body and finishes inside with either hand. Good motor. Face up game out to the three-point line. Will impact immediately, with WNBA potential."

 
NC State officially opens the 2017-18 season at home on Friday, November 10 when Jacksonville comes to town. Tip-off between the Wolfpack and Dolphins is scheduled for 5 p.m. with live video coverage provided by ACC Network Extra.