The NC State Wolfpack men's basketball squad is riding a wave of momentum as they prepare to return to Raleigh this Saturday. Coming off a historic, record-shattering performance on the road, NC State (12-5 overall, 3-1 in the ACC) will host the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (10-8 overall, 1-4 in the ACC) inside the familiar confines of the Lenovo Center. Tip-off is scheduled for a noon start, with the action broadcast live on The CW.
Wolfpack Looks to Maintain ACC Momentum
The energy surrounding the Wolfpack program is palpable following their dominant 113-69 victory over Florida State last Saturday. This win was not just a standard conference victory; it etched itself into the NC State record books. The 44-point margin of victory set a new program record for the largest margin of victory in an ACC road game, surpassing a record that had stood since 1954.
Record-Breaking Shooting Display
The cornerstone of the win against the Seminoles was an unprecedented display of perimeter shooting. NC State tied the program record, and matched an ACC record, by sinking 19 three-pointers in the game. This feat was particularly impressive given the team's initial struggles from deep, starting the game 1-for-9 before catching fire, ultimately making 18 of their final 26 attempts from beyond the arc. This hot streak highlights a season-long trend for the Pack.
Currently, NC State ranks third in the ACC and 14th nationally, averaging 11.1 made three-pointers per game. Furthermore, their overall efficiency has been stellar; the team leads the ACC and sits seventh in the NCAA in three-point percentage, shooting a crisp 40.1% on the season. Over the last two contests, this efficiency has spiked to an incredible 56.1% from long range.
Key Player Spotlight: Paul McNeil, Jr.
Junior guard Paul McNeil, Jr., spearheaded the offensive explosion against FSU, leading the Wolfpack with 21 points. His performance is indicative of the balanced offensive attack head coach Kevin Keatts has fostered this season. While the three-point barrage captured headlines, the team's ability to dominate stretches of the game—evidenced by their 26-6 response run after FSU briefly cut the lead to 17—shows resilience and depth.
Scouting the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
NC State’s Saturday opponent, Georgia Tech, enters Raleigh looking to reverse a recent slide. The Yellow Jackets hold a 1-4 record in conference play, suggesting they are searching for consistency as the ACC schedule ramps up. Under head coach Damon Stoudamire, Georgia Tech plays a competitive style, but they will face one of the hottest shooting teams in the country at a time when NC State is feeling confident at home.
Defensive Challenges Ahead
For Georgia Tech, defending the perimeter will be the paramount challenge. Containing the volume and accuracy of NC State’s three-point shooting will dictate the flow of the game. If the Wolfpack continues to shoot near 50% from three, the Yellow Jackets will struggle to keep pace, especially if they cannot generate enough offense of their own.
Gameday Details and Fan Information
Fans attending the noon tip-off at the Lenovo Center can expect a vibrant atmosphere. NC State encourages fans to utilize the Wolfpack Sports Network to listen live with Matt Chazanow and Chucky Brown calling the action. For those following remotely, the game will be broadcast on The CW. Comprehensive coverage, including live stats and updated game notes for both teams, will be available through the official NC State Athletics website.
Historically, matchups between these two ACC rivals are often tightly contested, but NC State's current form—particularly their offensive firepower—sets them up as the slight favorites heading into Saturday’s contest. The Wolfpack’s primary goal will be to translate their record-setting road performance into sustained success in front of their home crowd, building on their strong 3-1 start in conference action.
The Pack’s ability to dominate both ends of the floor, exemplified by their quick response in Tallahassee, suggests a team peaking at the right moment in the season. As they welcome Georgia Tech, NC State aims to prove that their recent offensive explosion was not an anomaly but the new standard for the 2024-2025 campaign.
