Charlotte Showdown: Lubin Leads N.C. State to Victory Over Pittsburgh
Ven-Allen Lubin continues to be the backbone of N.C. State’s success this season.
On Wednesday afternoon, he delivered an impressive 18-point performance at the Spectrum Center, helping No. 7 N.C.
State snap a four-game losing streak with a 98-88 win over Pittsburgh in the ACC tournament's second round.
Lubin, who transferred from North Carolina after last season, has been a consistent force for the Wolfpack. His move from the Tar Heels surprised many, but Lubin has embraced his new role and thrived.
When asked about his departure from UNC, Lubin chose to focus on the present: “I’m having a really great time enjoying my experience here. It is nothing that I will regret any time.”
Lubin’s impact is undeniable. He’s started every game for N.C.
State, leading the ACC in field-goal percentage at 68.8% while averaging 13.8 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. His contribution was crucial in N.C.
State’s last victory over UNC, where he scored 12 points.
The win against Pittsburgh is pivotal for the Wolfpack as they aim to secure a spot in the NCAA tournament. “We want to take advantage of every opportunity,” Lubin emphasized.
“We don’t get these moments back. We want to enjoy it and keep winning.”
Looking ahead, N.C. State faces a formidable challenge against No. 2-seed Virginia in Thursday’s quarterfinal.
Virginia has dominated their previous encounters, winning decisively both times. Lubin acknowledges the task at hand: “We know Virginia is a physical team.
We’ve got to learn from our mistakes and make sure we do well, avoiding foul trouble.”
As the tournament heats up, Lubin and the Wolfpack are determined to seize the moment and continue their journey. With Lubin leading the charge, N.C. State fans have plenty to be hopeful about.
ACC Tournament Schedule Highlights:
- Wednesday’s Results: No.
7 N.C. State 98, Pittsburgh 88
- Thursday’s Quarterfinals: No.
2 Virginia vs. N.C.
State, noon, ESPN2
- No.
3 Miami vs. Louisville-SMU winner, 2:30, ESPN2
- No. 1 Duke vs.
FSU-Cal winner, 7 p.m., ESPN
- No.
4 North Carolina vs. Clemson-WF winner, 9:30, ESPN
Stay tuned as the ACC tournament unfolds, with teams battling for a chance at the championship.