Damon Harge has seemingly grown up in the spotlight.
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The class of 2018 standout has one mix tape from four years ago at 4,217,695 views, and another from two years ago at 3,272,471.
Harge has already earned college scholarship offers from North Carolina Central, Memphis and DePaul, plus interest from Stanford. His vision, ability to finish against taller players and quickness, are key components, but his ballhandling wizardry is what has made him a You Tube sensation.
"I've tried to not listen to it [the hype] and keep working hard because somebody is always trying to take your spot," Harge said. "I just keep that in the back of my mind because you can always fall off."
The 5-foot-8, 140-pounder will be starting his freshman year at Orlando (Fla.) Christian Prep, but he has some roots in the Triangle. Harge, who returned to North Carolina to play in the CP3 Rising Stars Camp and DunkDog.com All-American Game last weekend, attended Creedmoor (N.C.) Christian Faith Academy for his sixth-grade year and seventh-grade campaign. He made the move to Orlando Christian last year and split his traveling team action with Each 1 Teach 1 and Southeast Elite.
"This camp was great because I was able to go against other great guards and show them what I was made of," Harge said. "I'm not going to back down. I liked it a lot."
Harge probably knows his way around NC State better than many of the incoming freshman this fall. He attended numerous Wolfpack men's basketball games at PNC Center and knows all the ins and outs of the Dail Center, which is the practice facility.
"It was a pleasure to be at NC State getting workouts and I like the school and area," Harge said. "I definitely liked being at CFC Academy in Creedmoor. I miss North Carolina a lot.
"Orlando is a lot different because there is a lot more to do, but then I miss being in the gym a lot like I was at NC State."
Harge was able to get to know coach Mark Gottfried and assistant coaches Rob Moxley, Orlando Early and Bobby Lutz. Harge's favorite NC State memory was going to his first Wolfpack contest.
"The crowd was super enthusiastic and by far the most favorite game that I went to in the sixth or seventh grade," Harge said.
Harge looked up to former NC State point guard Lorenzo Brown, who he still stays in touch with.
"I learned a lot from Lorenzo and still talk to him on Twitter and everything," Harge said. "He comes and checks out my games sometimes. I learned a lot from him and C.J. [Leslie] and all of them."
Harge had eight points, five rebounds and two assists in a 85-83 victory in the DunkDog.com All-American Game last Sunday. He got to see some familiar faces during his "homecoming" trip.
"It felt good and I just felt comfortable and I hope to stop by NC State before I leave," Harge said. "I'm sure I'll be hearing from NC State soon [in recruiting]."