a 6-10, rim-protecting, high-motor forward who brought real two-way value to NC State
In the 2024-25 season at NC State, Ben Middlebrooks averaged 7.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game, ranked ninth in the ACC in blocks, and led the Wolfpack in blocks while starting 23 of 30 games. He’s the kind of big who does the gritty stuff coaches love: physical paint defense, active hands, and enough touch to stretch the floor a bit after making 37.6% from three in his 2025-26 pro stint. The fit? A tough, reliable frontcourt piece who won’t need plays called for him to impact winning.
