Kate Harpring came to Chapel Hill with plenty of hype, and now it’s simply gone up to another level.
Harpring has been named to the 2026-27 Naismith Women’s College Player of the Year Watch List, placing her among 50 players in contention for one of college basketball’s most prestigious individual awards.
Here’s the part that makes Harpring’s inclusion particularly impressive: She’s the only freshman on the entire list.
Putting the nation on notice.
Kate has been named to the Naismith Women’s College Player of the Year Watchlist. pic.twitter.com/4V0B1jbU0s
— Carolina Women’s Basketball (@uncwbb) October 29, 2026
Before the regular season even starts, and before she even logs a single minute at the collegiate level, Harpring is already being discussed alongside some of the best players in the country.
Kate Harpring is already proving she’s the real deal
Harpring arrived at UNC as one of the most decorated recruits in program history…