LeVelle Moton has been awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina’s highest civilian honor
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NCCU’s LeVelle Moton Honored with North Carolina’s Highest Civilian Award

Phyllis Coley @phyllis_coley

RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolina Central University’s legendary men’s basketball head coach LeVelle Moton has been inducted into the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society, one of North Carolina’s highest civilian honors. The distinction recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the state through leadership, service, and personal achievement.

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North Carolina Governor Josh Stein stands with the 2025 recipients of the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine, including Coach LeVelle Moton of North Carolina Central University, Torry Holt (NC State football), Heather O’Reilly (UNC soccer), Jenny Levy (UNC lacrosse), Elliott Avent (NC State baseball), and Jordan Staal (Carolina Hurricanes), during a ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion in Raleigh. (submitted)

The award was presented by Governor Josh Stein during a ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion on October 3, celebrating six honorees who exemplify North Carolina excellence. Joining Coach Moton were Torry Holt (NC State football), Heather O’Reilly (UNC soccer), Jenny Levy (UNC lacrosse), Elliott Avent (NC State baseball), and Jordan Staal (Carolina Hurricanes) — a roster of athletic greatness representing the best of the state’s sports legacy.

A Full-Circle Moment of Gratitude

For Moton, the honor carried deeply personal meaning.

“As a kid, I literally grew up three blocks away from the Governor’s Mansion,” he reflected. “It served as a monument of hope for kids such as myself who were living in challenging circumstances.”

Now one of the most respected coaches in college basketball, Moton’s journey from Raleigh’s neighborhoods to national prominence embodies the very spirit of perseverance and community uplift that the Order of the Long Leaf Pine seeks to celebrate.

About the Award

Established in 1963, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest civilian honor, recognizes individuals who demonstrate exemplary service and leadership that strengthen the fabric of North Carolina communities. Recipients join an elite network of civic leaders, educators, and trailblazers whose collective work continues to move the state forward.

For more information on NCCU Athletics, visit NCCUEaglePride.com.