NC State Dominates Colgate in 72-49 Victory

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — The NC State Wolfpack delivered a commanding performance against the Colgate Raiders, securing a 72-49 victory on Monday night at the Lenovo Center. The win marks NC State’s fourth consecutive win this season, bringing their record to 4-0.

Ben Middlebrooks emerged as a key player off the bench, scoring 19 points while making 5 of 8 shots from the field and a perfect 9 of 9 from the free-throw line. Marcus Hill added 17 points, hitting 6 of 10 from the field and 5 of 6 at the foul line. Brandon Huntley-Hatfield also contributed to the victory with 11 points and 11 rebounds, showcasing a strong defensive effort.

The game began with a tight contest, with Colgate’s Jalen Cox scoring to give the Raiders an early 6-2 lead. However, NC State responded with a substantial 17-0 run, leading to a 19-6 advantage. This momentum proved crucial as the Wolfpack maintained control throughout the game.

By halftime, NC State led 40-22, with Middlebrooks and Huntley-Hatfield each scoring eight points and Hill adding seven. The team shot 44.4% from the floor overall, although struggled beyond the arc, making only 3 of 14 attempts (21.4%). Their proficiency at the free-throw line was notable, converting 21 of 26 attempts (80.8%).

On the other side, Colgate faced shooting woes, hitting only 33.3% of their shots and suffering a dismal performance from three-point range, missing 21 of 26 attempts. Nicolas Louis-Jacques led Colgate in scoring with nine points.

Colgate, under the leadership of head coach Matt Langel, was predicted to win the Patriot League for the third consecutive year. However, the team, currently 1-3, struggled to find their rhythm in this matchup. Colgate’s youthful roster, featuring four freshmen and five sophomores, looks to improve as the season progresses.

NC State will look to continue their unbeaten start when they host William & Mary on Friday.