Opinion
3 min read

Wolfpack's Offensive Prowess to Test Syracuse Orange at PNC Arena

As the North Carolina State Wolfpack prepare to host the Syracuse Orange at the PNC Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a showcase of offensive firepower and strategic gameplay. The Wolfpack, coming off a series of impressive performances, look poised to continue their dominance on their home court.


Feb 14, 2023; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange forward Chris Bell (0) shoots the ball against the defense of North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Terquavion Smith (0) during the second half at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

In their last outing on December 23 against Detroit Mercy Titans, NCST displayed an exceptional blend of scoring efficiency and defensive prowess. With an 83-66 victory under their belt, they demonstrated that they could maintain a high shooting percentage from both inside and beyond the arc – 50 percent from the field and 36 percent from three-point range. Their ability to convert fast breaks into points was notable as well, racking up 22 fast break points.


The Wolfpack's balanced attack was complemented by a strong assist-to-turnover ratio of 2.57, highlighting their ability to share the ball effectively while minimizing mistakes. This level of execution will be crucial against SYR's defense.


Feb 14, 2023; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange guard Judah Mintz (3) loses control of the ball on a drive to the basket between North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Casey Morsell (14) and guard Jarkel Joiner (1) during the first half at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back further at NCST's performance against Saint Louis Billikens on December 21 reveals another layer of this team’s resilience. Despite trailing in the first half, they surged back with a staggering 49 points in the second half to secure an 82-70 win. This comeback was fueled by converting turnovers into points – capitalizing with an impressive tally of 29 points off turnovers.


However, it would be remiss not to acknowledge that Tennessee Volunteers managed to outmaneuver NCST on December 17 at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio. The Volunteers' balanced offense and rebounding edge led them to a close-fought victory over NCST with a scoreline of 79-70.


Feb 14, 2023; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange guard Judah Mintz (3) drives to the basket against the defense of North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Jarkel Joiner (1) during the first half at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

As we look ahead toward February’s clash between NCST and SYR, it is clear that maintaining offensive efficiency will be key for NCST if they wish to overcome SYR’s challenge. The Wolfpack must also focus on controlling rebounds and limiting turnovers – areas where Tennessee found success against them.


With game day approaching on February 21st at PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina State fans should mark their calendars for what promises to be an exhilarating matchup starting at 7:00 PM Eastern Time. Those unable or unwilling to brave the crowd can catch all the action live on ESPN Networks as both teams vie for supremacy on this much-awaited basketball evening.

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