Miami walked into Raleigh and walked out with their third straight win-and they did it by outworking, out-hustling, and out-executing NC State in just about every phase.
This wasn’t just a win for the Hurricanes. It was a statement.
NC State came in looking to bounce back from a 30-point loss to Louisville, hoping to play with an edge. But that edge never showed up.
Instead, Miami took control of the game with grit, discipline, and a clear hunger to extend their win streak.
After the game, NC State head coach Will Wade didn’t mince words. He was frustrated, candid, and clearly saw this coming.
“Well, we got another game Tuesday. Important one,” Wade said.
“So, hopefully, they'll get past it a lot quicker than I will. This doesn't sit well with me for a lot of reasons.”
Wade’s frustration wasn’t just about the loss-it was about the predictability of it. He’d seen the signs in practice.
He’d called out some of the very players who struggled in the game. The issues weren’t new, and they weren’t hidden.
“I could see some of this coming,” Wade admitted. “If you've asked our guys and they were honest… some of the guys who made major mistakes, I called out in practice the last two days.
I could see the slippage. I could see multiple guys who didn't play well today.
I could see them not playing well. It's like reading a coloring book.
So easy to read.”
That’s a coach who knows his roster inside and out. And he knew Miami would capitalize on the lapses in focus and effort. Wade didn’t sugarcoat it: the attention to detail just wasn’t there.
“And we just have very poor attention to detail,” he said.
On the flip side, Miami-led by Jai Lucas-brought energy and execution from the jump. They controlled the glass, dominated the paint, and won the hustle plays.
That’s not just effort; that’s culture. When a team consistently wins those gritty, physical battles, it’s a sign they’re locked in and playing for each other.
Look at the rebounding numbers. Look at the points in the paint.
Those aren’t just stats-they’re indicators of who wanted it more. And in this one, it was clearly the Hurricanes.
This win keeps Miami rolling, and if they keep bringing this level of intensity, they’re going to be a tough out for anyone. As for NC State, Tuesday’s game suddenly feels a whole lot bigger.