NC State's Gritty Performance Falls Short Against Virginia
In a spirited showdown in Charlotte, NC State battled valiantly but ultimately fell to Virginia, 81-74, ending their ACC tournament run. The game was a thrilling contest, showcasing NC State's growth and determination, even if moral victories aren't the ultimate goal.
Coach Will Wade and his squad were eager to avenge their previous losses to Virginia, and while they didn't get the win, the improvement in their execution and pride was evident.
The Wolfpack received significant contributions from their lineup, with sophomore Paul McNeil leading the charge. McNeil poured in 26 points, grabbed six rebounds, and added an assist and a steal. His shooting was sharp, going 7-15 from the field, 6-11 from beyond the arc, and hitting 6-of-7 free throws.
Ven-Allen Lubin continued to be a model of consistency, posting a double-double with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks. Despite a rough shooting night (3-8 from the floor), he was perfect from the free-throw line, hitting 8-8 for the second consecutive game. Quadir Copeland chipped in with nine points and six assists, making crucial plays in the game's closing stages.
Early Engagement and Competitive Spirit
Facing a Virginia team that had bested them twice this season, NC State knew a strong start was essential. They delivered, showing high engagement on both ends of the floor and on the boards. Lubin's early presence and Darrion Williams' three-pointer helped NC State jump to a 9-5 lead, setting a confident tone.
Virginia committed several turnovers in the first half, some forced by NC State's defense, others unforced. Lubin, McNeil, and Able made significant contributions, with Lubin tallying 10 points and five rebounds, while McNeil and Able combined for 14 points.
The first half was tightly contested, showcasing NC State's potential when fully engaged. Despite limited scoring from Copeland and Williams, the Wolfpack trailed by just one at halftime against a formidable opponent.
Resilience Amidst Second-Half Challenges
The second half posed more challenges for NC State, as Virginia tightened their play and capitalized on NC State's mistakes. Virginia's transition game was particularly effective, outscoring NC State 15-0 in that department. Ugonna Onyensu's defensive presence was a game-changer, forcing NC State into a perimeter-focused offense.
Despite these hurdles, NC State remained resilient. They responded to Virginia's momentum shifts and fought back from a 12-point deficit. McNeil's late-game shooting and the team's defensive stops brought them close, but Virginia held on for the win.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
While NC State didn't come to Charlotte to exit in the quarterfinals, they aimed to secure an NCAA Tournament berth, and it seems they're on track. This week was about regaining confidence and proving their place among the elite.
The Wolfpack displayed some of their best defensive stretches against quality opponents. Their focus and attention to detail improved, yet there's room for growth. As they prepare for the NCAA Tournament, continued progress could make them a formidable opponent.
In Will Wade's first year at NC State, a new standard is emerging. When the team aligns with this standard, they're competitive against top-tier teams. If they harness this potential, the rest of March could be exciting for NC State, as they likely head to their first NCAA tournament since 2024.