The last time these two programs met was during the 2024 ACC semi-finals which was one of the most remarkable and memorable matchups we've seen in recent memory. For the Wolfpack who escaped in a 75-68 win, marked the start of a magical final four run in Phoenix and turn around for Coach Keatts who was on the hot seat. This marked the start of a 5 wins in 5 days, a feat that hasn't been achieved since Kemba Walker and the UConn Huskies of 2011.
What to watch for:
Michael O'Connell who has been the facilitator for the Wolfpack this season has a 4:1 asisst to turnover ratio. Despite that O'Connell is shooting ust 28.6% from deep this year after last years 37.5%. Some of that has been to O'Connell playing a different role on this years squad who lost over 40% of it's scoring, and not having DJ Burns (The Eraser) on the inside.
Guard Play
Guards Marcus Hill and Jayden Taylor both averaging double figures at 12 points a piece but will have to elevate their play during conference play for the Pack to have any chance at competing in the post season. Attacking the rim, relieving some burden for Michael O'Connell is a solution. The marksman is shooting a career low from the perimeter due to being mainly the facilitator which takes away from his production in the scoring column. On the season, the Pack rank just 342nd in the country in attempted 3's. This could certainly free up Hoya's transfer Dontrez Styles who is known to be a "3 and D" guy with athletic ability.
(photo courtesy of The Fayetteville Observer)
Inside- Out
NC State forces 14 turnovers a game which is good for fourth in the conference.
Inside-Out game with Ben Middlebrooks and Brandon Huntley-Hatfield is the recipe. The Pack are 8-1 on the year when they outscore their opponents in the paint, versus 0-3 whe they lose the interior battle.
4 Guard Lineup
Coach Keatts knows with his 4 guard lineup, the Pack are most deadly when they run in transition, leading the ACC at that statistic. It starts Tuesday at Virginia with getting the crowd out of it early, playing physical defense, and controlling the boards. Michael O'Connell has to take that next step for this team to compete not just on Tuesday night, but throughout the duration of the season.
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