The North Carolina State Wolfpack have emerged as underdogs in this year’s NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament, pulling off a stunning 67-58 victory over the second-seeded Marquette Golden Eagles to advance to the Elite Eight for the first time since 1986. Despite a rocky regular season, the Wolfpack have now won eight consecutive games since the start of the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament, showcasing their resilience and determination. NC State’s DJ Horne expressed confidence in his team’s abilities from the start, emphasizing the importance of understanding roles and locking in, especially during crucial moments like the tournament.
Awaiting the winner of either top-seeded Houston or No. 4 seed Duke, NC State is poised to make a statement as they aim for a spot in the Final Four. The last time the Wolfpack reached this stage was 41 years ago, when they captured the ACC Tournament title before Jim Valvano’s iconic celebration. The Golden Eagles struggled with their shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, as they were unable to overcome NC State’s strong defensive efforts. Despite high expectations, Marquette fell short in their first Sweet 16 appearance since 2013, prompting reflection from coach Shaka Smart on the team’s performance and missed opportunities.
Coach Keatts praised his team’s defensive prowess against Marquette, highlighting their ability to limit the Golden Eagles’ scoring opportunities and execute their game plan effectively. The game in Dallas marked Shaka Smart’s second consecutive NCAA Tournament loss in Texas, following a previous defeat with the Longhorns. Smart expressed disappointment over the loss, acknowledging that the team will not have another opportunity to practice or prepare for future games. The Associated Press contributed to this report, shedding light on the Wolfpack’s impressive run in the tournament and the challenges faced by their opponents throughout the game.
The Wolfpack’s journey to the Elite Eight has captivated fans and analysts, as they continue to defy expectations and prove their competitiveness on the national stage. NC State’s recent success serves as a testament to their resilience and unity as a team, overcoming adversity and setbacks to reach new heights in the tournament. With a potential matchup against powerhouse programs like Houston or Duke on the horizon, the Wolfpack are determined to continue their impressive run and make a strong push for a spot in the Final Four. As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on NC State as they seek to write their own underdog story and etch their names in March Madness history.
