Opinion
3 min read

Can Pittsburgh Panthers Outmaneuver Wake Forest at Capital One Arena?

As the Pittsburgh Panthers prepare to face off against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Capital One Arena, fans are abuzz with anticipation. The Panthers have been on a roll, showcasing a level of play that could very well carry them to victory in their upcoming game scheduled for March 14th.


Jan 31, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons head coach Steve Forbes reacts on the sidelines against at the Petersen Events Center. Pittsburgh won 77-72. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In their recent match on March 10th against North Carolina State's Wolfpack, the Panthers demonstrated an impressive offensive strategy. Scoring 81 points with a field goal percentage of 50 and sinking three-pointers at a rate of 40 percent, they've proven their ability to maintain consistency under pressure. Their defensive game was equally strong; they managed five steals and three blocks while keeping turnovers down to just five.


The team's performance against Florida State's Seminoles on March 6th further solidified their status as formidable contenders. With an even higher score of 88 points and an astounding two-point shooting percentage of 67, PITT showed that they could dominate inside the paint. Their assists-to-turnover ratio stood at an impressive 1.82, indicating efficient ball movement and smart playmaking.


Jan 25, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Pittsburgh Panthers guard Nelly Cummings (0) warms up before the game against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at the Petersen Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Moreover, PITT's away game against Boston College Eagles on March 2nd saw them rack up a staggering total of 90 points with remarkable accuracy from beyond the arc—53 percent from three-point range—and maintaining control with only five turnovers throughout the game.


While these statistics are commendable, it would be remiss not to acknowledge Wake Forest's capabilities as well. They bring their own set of skills to the court that could pose challenges for PITT. However, given PITT’s recent performances and statistical advantages in key areas such as points in paint and assist-to-turnover ratios, it seems likely that they will have the upper hand in this matchup.


Jan 25, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Wake Forest Demon Deacons guard Cameron Hildreth (2) handles the ball against Pittsburgh Panthers forward Blake Hinson (left) during the second half at the Petersen Events Center. Pittsburgh won 81-79. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The Demon Deacons must be prepared for PITT’s fast breaks which have consistently contributed significantly to their scoring runs. Additionally, if past games are any indication, PITT is expected to leverage its rebounding abilities both defensively and offensively which has been instrumental in securing second-chance points—a crucial factor in tight games.


Fans should expect nothing less than a thrilling encounter between these two teams as they battle it out on neutral ground come mid-March. The Pittsburgh Panthers appear poised for another win if they can maintain their current momentum and execute with precision as seen in previous outings.


Mark your calendars for March 14th at Capital One Arena where tip-off is set for 2:30 PM Eastern Time; fans can catch all the action live on ESPN2.

Rate the article

Related stories

Panthers Prowl to Capital One Arena: North Carolina Tar Heels Await
Opinion

Panthers Prowl to Capital One Arena: North Carolina Tar Heels Await

4 min read
Pittsburgh Panthers Set to Pounce on NC State Wolfpack at Petersen Events Center
Opinion

Pittsburgh Panthers Set to Pounce on NC State Wolfpack at Petersen Events Center

3 min read
Can the Pittsburgh Panthers Claw Victory at Petersen Events Center?
Opinion

Can the Pittsburgh Panthers Claw Victory at Petersen Events Center?

3 min read
Can the Pittsburgh Panthers Soar Above the Boston College Eagles at Conte Forum?
Opinion

Can the Pittsburgh Panthers Soar Above the Boston College Eagles at Conte Forum?

3 min read