NC State lands Fayetteville big man

FAYETTEVILLE, North Carolina (WTVD) -- Devontae Cacok shot a breathtaking 80 percent from the field last year for UNCW under then-head coach Kevin Keatts.

When you shoot 80 percent, it's not so much that you're a blazing dead-eye, it's more that you're dunking the ball or laying it in a whole lot.

That's instructive because Friday, NC State landed a recruit from Fayetteville who REALLY seems to enjoy dunking. At least - that's what this highlight reel of Manny Bates would suggest:

The video's also got a whole bunch of ominous bells and reggae horns, but that's beside the point where we're concerned.

Bates is a stringy 6-10 finisher and rim protector at his current level. He announced Friday that he had chosen the Wolfpack over Georgetown and new head Hoya Patrick Ewing.

Bates is considered a 4-star, top 100 national level recruit. Keatts wants to play fast and force turnovers. Having a springy guy like Bates at the rim at both ends should create plenty of high-percentage opportunities down the line.

Bates will start his State career next season. He becomes Keatts' first recruit in the class of 2018.

ABC11 was on hand for Bates' announcement this morning at Northwood Temple High School.

"It's close to home," Bates said of NC State. I went up there for my visit and I had a pretty good time. I felt really comfortable with the team."