The icy roads throughout the Triangle area won't stop a much anticipated heated rivalry in recent years as the NC State Wolfpack host the North Carolina Tar Heels Saturday afternoon, 4pm live from the Lenovo Center. This matchup will feature two teams coming off emotional wins recently, looking to build its resume in hopes of a Quad-1 win for their Net rankings and tournament portfolio.
(photo courtesy of Inside Pack Sports)
The Wolfpack whose motto has been "Win the Paint, Win the Game" Are 8-1 when they outscore their opponents on the inside, expect to feature Ben Middlebrooks against the Tar Heels interior front. With 1 block away from having the most in his career, Ben has 14 on the season. His versatility on the offensive end gives the Wolfpack an added dimension to force opposing defenses to game plan against his "stretch-5" offensive arsenal.
What To Watch Four
The Wolfpack will have their hands full against the number 1 scoring offense in the ACC, as North Carolina is averaging nearly 85 ppg. In contrast, the Pack yield just 66 ppg.
North Carolina likes to get out in transition with their infamous primary and secondary break; Look for the Pack to contain the Heels into a half court offense, limiting one shot possessions, and more importantly controlling the boards, where the Heels thrive on second chance points, averaging nearly 38 rebounds per game.
Freshman stud Ian Jackson over the last 5 games has averaged 25 ppg, shooting 54% from the field. This is a strong indicator that Jackson has taken the next step to be the number 2 option in Hubert Davis's offense behind All-American R.J. Davis.
(photo courtesy of Bobcock Hoops)
How To Watch
January 11, 2025 at 4PM
ACC Network
Lenovo Center: Raleigh, NC
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