Rising Panther: Carter Parsons Building Strong Recruiting Momentum Ahead of 2025-2026 Season

As the 2025–2026 basketball season approaches, Carter Parsons has quickly become one of the most talked-about prospects in Eastern Kentucky. The graphic below highlights a growing list of college programs showing interest in the talented senior, and his performance in KHSAA play last season and an impressive AAU season has only strengthened his case as one of the region’s premier recruits.

A Breakout KHSAA Performer

Parsons put together an impressive 2024–2025 campaign, showing the consistency and scoring ability that college coaches covet. According to KHSAA statistics:

  • Parsons ranked among the state leaders in made three-pointers: 95 threes in 27 games (3.5 per game) making 39.9 % of his attempts from beyond the arc.  
  • His long-range shooting volume and efficiency helped stretch defenses and open lanes for teammates.
  • Last season Parsons averaged 18.4 PPG while shooting a combined 43.6% from the floor and 39.9% behind the arc. Parsons also grabbed over 3.3 rebounds per game

Recruiting Interest on the Rise

The recruiting graphic surrounding Parsons showcases a diverse and growing list of programs—spanning NAIA, NCCAA, and small-college NCAA levels—recognizing his potential. Programs such as: • Alice Lloyd College • Kentucky Christian University • Union College • Brescia University • Kansas Wesleyan University • Fisher College • Campbellsville University–Harrodsburg.

These schools are drawn to Parsons’ combination of shooting touch, basketball IQ, and competitive toughness. His ability to play on or off the ball gives him versatility that fits a wide range of college systems.

Why Coaches Are Calling

College coaches value recruits who can impact the game immediately, and Parsons checks several key boxes:

Elite Catch-and-Shoot Ability – One of the area’s top returning long-range shooters, Parsons forces defenses to extend, opening driving lanes for teammates.

Smart Decision-Maker – He plays under control, rarely forces plays, and understands spacing and timing—traits that translate well to the next level.

Physical and Mental Toughness -Parsons has shown he can handle defensive pressure, take big shots, and stay composed in late-game moments.

Steady Year-to-Year Growth -Each season, his confidence, efficiency, and leadership responsibilities have risen—a strong indicator of continued upward trajectory.

Heading Into Senior Season

With his recruitment already active, Parsons enters his senior year poised for even bigger numbers. For the Panthers, he will be a cornerstone of the offense, and for recruiters, he remains a high-value prospect with room to grow and polish his college-ready skill set.

If his upward trend continues—and if he matches or surpasses his KHSAA marks from last season—expect even more programs to join the pursuit.

Photos Submitted

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