McDonald's All American Game 2012: Upstart NC State Primed for Another Run

N.C. State certainly had talent this season, but no one expected the Wolfpack to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament.

But a program that hadn't been to the NCAA tournament since 2005-2006 came out of nowhere to be one of this year's Cinderellas. The Wolfpack knocked off San Diego State and Georgetown and lost by a mere three points to Kansas in the Sweet 16.

And N.C. State fans don't have to worry about heading back to the doldrums next season. That's because the Wolfpack have landed three McDonald's All-Americans, the most they've ever boasted in one recruiting class.

So let's take a look at three recruits who have the Wolfpack positioned for another run next season.

3. Tyler Lewis, PG, Oak Hill Academy

It almost seems unfair to put Tyler Lewis at No. 3. He's ranked 94 out of 100 by ESPNU and he's a 4-star recruit.

But that's how impressive N.C. State's current recruiting class is. The Wolfpack actually have two better recruits than Lewis.

Lewis, at 5'11", doesn't look like a menacing player, but he may as well be called The Silent Assassin...or The Loud Assassin, depending on who you talk to. He's an excellent ball handler and can fly past most defenders. Once he gets into the paint, he'll either use his signature floater to drop points on big men or use either hand to squeeze passes into tight spots.

Lewis is a true point guard who shouldn't have trouble gaining respect from the start in college ball.

2. T.J. Warren, SF, Brewster Academy

T.J. Warren will enjoy catching passes from Lewis and knocking down jumpers. He's a big-time scorer with sneaky athleticism who knows the game.

Warren is also a versatile wing player, can create off the dribble and displays a veteran-like poise to his game that could see him make an impact right away at N.C. State.

With Warren's intelligence and ability to create contact at the rim, it's no wonder his father played at N.C. State from 1974-76.

1. Rodney Purvis, SG, Upper Room Christian Academy

Ranked 20th overall by ESPNU, Rodney Purvis is a special player who figures to be the Wolfpack's next star.

Purvis is the definition of a slasher with the ability to get to the lane almost at will. He's a quick, strong, powerful player with the ball-handling skills to get anywhere he wants on the floor. Add in his athleticism and leaping ability, and you have a great finisher, not to mention a solid rebounder for his position.

But beyond that, Purvis is also an impressive passer who gets his teammates involved when the defense closes on him. He needs work on his jump shot, but he's going to be an impact player from the start regardless.

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