"Bucket Machine on a Mission: The High-Flying Enforcer You Can't Contain"

Carter Cohen

@carterjcohen1

IG: @carter__cohen

6’11, 205lbs, Class of 2026

North Creek HS, WA

Carter Cohen is an explosive, high-powered stretch forward who plays the game like he’s on a mission to dominate every inch of the court. At 6’11 with the bounce of a wing and the handles of a guard, Carter is a dynamic two-way weapon who trenches defenses with a lethal rainmaker at a scorching 48% clip from beyond the arc, but he’s just as dangerous when he’s slicing to the basket or launching off through the lane for a violent rim-rattling finish. His relentless rebounding as he gobbles up boards like candy, crafty face-up game, and brutal poster dunks make him a walking highlight reel. But it's his presence on defense that sends a message. He blocks everything in sight, controls the lane with authority, and makes anyone thinking about entering his paint know this is his house, and he intends to protect it. Coaches should know they’re getting a fierce competitor who brings intensity, electricity, and a fearless edge to both ends every time he steps on that floor.

Carter averaged 19.1 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game this past season while shooting a blistering 64% from the field, 48% from deep, and an elite 92% from the free-throw line. That's flat-out cookin' y'all and the very definition of efficiently bringing the heat. He’s a true double-double machine who not only scores at all three levels but dominates the glass and changes games on defense. His biggest improvements this year came in the form of interior dominance, athleticism, he’s more explosive, more physical, and more impactful at the rim. He focused on attacking the hoop with ruthless intent and purpose, rim-running in transition, and creating open looks for teammates. Now, he’s focused on evolving his post-footwork and midrange arsenal, adding more strength and mass to his frame.

The most defining moment of his season wasn’t a stat, it was stepping into the leadership role and guiding North Creek to its first-ever state appearance. That moment shifted everything. He now plays with pride, purpose, and a clear vision: to elevate his squad even further. Playing with Seattle Select on the UA Rise circuit, he’s preparing for the UA Rise Finals in Chicago with one goal in mind, show out and earn the attention he deserves from D1 coaches. He’s fueled by competition, lit up by every battle, and thrives on winning individual matchups and team victories alike.

When Carter faces adversity, he responds with heart, play by play, possession by possession, leaving everything on the court. His mindset is rooted in preparation, and he trusts his work to show when the lights come on. He’s serious about playing at the next level and has the physical tools, emotional maturity, and game-breaking skill set to get there. Off the court, Carter enjoys time with friends, fishing trips, and golf outings, quiet hobbies for someone whose on-court game is anything but calm.

I assess that Carter is a rare mix of length, mobility, and explosiveness. His ability to shoot it from deep, dominate inside, and lock down the paint gives him elite two-way potential. As a stretch 4 with guard-like skills and a rim protector’s mindset, he fits perfectly into the modern game, and college programs looking for a big who can do it all should know his name.

Carter’s potential is sky-high. With continued strength development and adding more muscle mass, he has the ceiling of a high-major forward and the motor to match. Expect him to take over games this summer and make serious noise in his final high school run. He’s not just flying above the rim, he’s soaring toward greatness causing one to ask, "How's the air up there ", as we witness his high-fly aerial assualt. Carter is poised to have yet another monster season ahead that could be one for the record books, y'all. So get your popcorn ready for his must-see TV show and dazzling final high school run. Stay tuned.