NC State Triumphs Over Pitt, Secures Spot Before Selection Sunday
In a decisive matchup during the ACC Tournament, NC State emerged victorious against Pittsburgh, winning 98-88. This win was crucial for the Wolfpack, who faced a challenging season, ending the regular season with four consecutive losses and only one win in their last seven games. The success against the Panthers not only boosted their morale but also significantly improved their chances for an NCAA Tournament bid.
Key Game Highlights
The game took place on Wednesday, March 11, during the second round of the ACC Tournament. NC State, the seventh seed, demonstrated impressive performance against the No. 15 seed Panthers, particularly in the second half.
- NC State shot over 60% from the field.
- The team made 13 of their 23 attempts from three-point range.
- Quadir Copeland led the Wolfpack with 24 points and eight assists.
- A total of six NC State players scored in double figures.
Impact of Quadir Copeland
Quadir Copeland’s contributions were pivotal. The senior and third-team All-ACC selection showed exceptional leadership on the court despite being a transfer and the initial focus being on another player, Darrion Williams, the preseason player of the year. Copeland’s consistent scoring and playmaking were instrumental in securing this important win.
Coach’s Perspective
Will Wade, in his first year as coach, emphasized the significance of the victory. He noted that a loss could have severely jeopardized their chances for NCAA selection. His confidence in Copeland’s development, both on and off the court, showcases how critical this player has been to the team’s overall success.
Upcoming Challenges
With this victory, NC State is set to face No. 2 seed Virginia on Thursday, March 12. This matchup holds particular importance as NC State aims to overcome previous defeats to the Cavaliers during the regular season. Wade is aware of the challenges ahead, having noted that the team experienced significant losses to Virginia earlier, including a 29-point defeat in Charlottesville.
NCAA Tournament Outlook
NC State’s victory over Pittsburgh has eased concerns about their NCAA Tournament bid. Currently, the Wolfpack stands at 20-12, with a NET ranking of 35. Historically, teams with a profile similar to theirs have about a 90% chance of receiving an NCAA invitation. Wade expressed optimism, stating that they would avoid unnecessary stress until Selection Sunday.
Conclusion
This victory also marked NC State’s sixth consecutive win in the ACC Tournament, adding to their momentum heading into the next game. The Wolfpack’s performance against Pittsburgh has instilled a renewed sense of hope among fans, as they prepare for a critical showdown with Virginia.
