Last Wednesday, C.J. Leslie, ranked the 11th-best overall prospect by Scout.com, the No. 4 power forward and a five-star prospect, announced his intent to join State’s already stellar 2010 basketball recruiting class. The 6’8, 185 lb. Word of God senior will play alongside guards and fellow five-star recruits Ryan Harrow and Lorenzo Brown next season.

Hundreds of fans gathered in and around the porch of Sammy’s Tap and Grill on Avent Ferry Road Tuesday afternoon for a glimpse of Pack recruit C.J. Leslie. Rising senior Tracy Smith and fellow incoming freshman Ryan Harrow were on hand, as was a large group of Leslie’s family and friends.

Leslie arrived alone at around 5:20 p.m. He pulled into the Sammy’s parking lot, looked amazed at the packed parking lot and group of cheering onlookers, then parked outside the restaurant. He joined his family at the front of the porch and signed his most important autograph to date – on the letter of intent that will allow him to suit up for State next year.

“It is certainly exciting to bring a player with the type of talent and athleticism that C.J. possesses to our program,” head coach Sidney Lowe said in a release. “He joins a very good class with Lorenzo and Ryan, and they will certainly be crucial in helping us continue what we have been building here at N.C. State.”

Afterward, Leslie fielded questions from the crowd and media. Several fans wanted reassurance that he, Harrow and Brown would help State break out of its long postseason drought and secure a championship next season. Leslie responded that it was in God’s hands.

The prized recruit stuck around for pictures and autographs and even signed a student’s red pick-up truck at his request.