N.C. State’s Thrilling Victory
N.C. State’s thrilling victory over No. 18 Clemson not only ended the Tigers’ impressive nine-game winning streak but also highlighted the clash’s dramatic final moments. The Wolfpack clinched an 80-76 overtime win in Clemson, where Ven-Allen Lubin shone bright, scoring 22 points.
Key Moments of the Game
A pivotal moment came from Derrion Williams, whose 3-pointer with just 2:40 remaining in overtime provided N.C. State with a lead they would never relinquish. Williams finished the night with a solid 17 points, while Quadir Copeland contributed 16 points to the team’s effort.
The Wolfpack (13-6, 4-2 in the Atlantic Coast Conference) had put themselves in a strong position during the first half, leading by as much as 11 points before halftime. N.C. State held a 58-51 advantage with just ten minutes left on the clock, but Clemson (16-4, 6-1) rallied, outscoring their opponents 18-11 to push the game into overtime.
Unfortunately for the Tigers, they couldn’t maintain the momentum after Williams’ crucial shot, with Lubin quickly adding to the score, ensuring N.C. State kept a safe cushion. Clemson struggled to close the gap and their chance for victory faded as they couldn’t get within three points the rest of the way.
Regulation Play Highlights
Regulation play had already seen tight competition, with Clemson’s Dillon Hunter missing a chance to put his team ahead with an open three-point shot in the waning seconds. On the other end, Williams was thwarted as he attempted a midrange jumper. Hunter’s last-second effort, a long three, bounced off the backboard as time expired.
RJ Godfrey led the scoring for Clemson with 16 points, but the Tigers’ usual efficiency was hindered; they had 13 turnovers overall, far exceeding their average of ten per game in conference play.
Significance of the Game
This game was particularly significant for N.C. State’s head coach Will Wade, a Clemson alum and former assistant under ex-Tigers coach Oliver Purnell. Wade experienced previous success against his alma mater, notably when he was leading McNeese State to victory against them in last year’s NCAA Tournament.
The Wolfpack managed to capitalize at the free-throw line, converting 22 out of 25 attempts, staying perfect in their four overtime attempts.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, N.C. State is set to face Pittsburgh on Saturday while Clemson prepares to travel to Georgia Tech, marking their first away game in two weeks.
