NC State Upsets Wake Forest in Key ACC Showdown

RALEIGH, N.C. — The North Carolina State Wolfpack secured a critical 85-73 victory over rival Wake Forest on Saturday, marking their second win in three games. Freshman Paul McNeil led NC State with 24 points, while teammate Dontrez Styles contributed 22 points in a game that could impact NCAA Tournament aspirations.

NC State showcased impressive shooting, converting 50% of their field goal attempts and 41% from beyond the arc, with 12 three-pointers made on 29 attempts. Additionally, the team assisted on 23 of 29 baskets, a testament to their cohesive offensive play. NC State’s triumph improved their record to 11-16 overall and 4-12 in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

“We executed our game plan well,” said NC State head coach Kevin Keatts. “Paul and Dontrez really stepped up, and our ball movement was key to our success today.”

Wake Forest entered the game with a record of 19-8 and a strong position on the NCAA Tournament bubble. However, this loss represents a setback as they have now lost two of their last three games. Cameron Hildreth led the Demon Deacons with 16 points, while Tre’Von Spillers added 15 and Hunter Sallis finished with 13 points and nine rebounds.

Despite facing early foul trouble, Wake Forest’s Efton Reid III managed to score 12 points. After trailing 11-0 at the game’s onset, the Demon Deacons responded to take a brief lead at 61-56. However, NC State countered with a critical 13-0 run to regain control of the game.

Michael O'Connell excelled for NC State, notching 13 assists, which contributed to the team’s overall success on the offensive end. The Wolfpack’s defensive efforts resulted in an edge on the boards, collecting 36 rebounds to Wake Forest’s 29.

“We knew it was a must-win for us to keep our hopes alive,” McNeil stated. “We stayed focused, and it paid off.”

Over the course of the game, NC State consistently maintained their composure, illustrating a stark contrast to the previous road loss they faced against Wake Forest in early January.

The Wolfpack will look to build on this momentum as they continue their season, now refocused on making strides in the ACC standings.