Opinion
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Wake Forest Set to Tame the Panthers in Coliseum Clash

As the Wake Forest Demon Deacons gear up for their next home game, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum, a fortress of basketball prowess in Winston-Salem, is set to host an electrifying encounter against the Pittsburgh Panthers. The stage is set for a showdown that promises to be nothing short of spectacular.


Jan 25, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons guard Tyree Appleby (1) shoots a three point basket over Pittsburgh Panthers guard Nelly Cummings (0) during the first half at the Petersen Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The Demon Deacons have been on an impressive run, showcasing their dominance on the court with a string of commanding performances. Their recent decimation of Presbyterian Blue Hose on December 21st was a testament to their offensive firepower and defensive solidity. WAKE racked up an astounding 91 points while shooting at an exceptional 55 percent from the field and an even more impressive 57 percent from beyond the arc.


What's more compelling is WAKE's ability to capitalize on turnovers; they scored 26 points off turnovers against Presbyterian and maintained this trend by scoring 24 points off turnovers against Delaware State Hornets just two days earlier. This ability to convert defense into offense will be crucial when they face PITT.


Jan 25, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Wake Forest Demon Deacons forward Matthew Marsh (33) dunks against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the second half at the Petersen Events Center. Pittsburgh won 81-79. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The Panthers should not be underestimated though; every game brings its own challenges and surprises. However, given WAKE's recent form, it would take something extraordinary from PITT to disrupt the home team's rhythm.


WAKE has demonstrated remarkable consistency in rebounding as well as ball distribution which has been pivotal in their victories. With assists outnumbering turnovers significantly – boasting ratios like 1.44 and even reaching up to 1.67 – it’s clear that team play has been instrumental for WAKE’s success.


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

Looking ahead at what could unfold when these two teams collide, one can't help but lean towards another dominant performance by Wake Forest Demon Deacons. Their blend of high-scoring offense combined with relentless defense makes them formidable opponents for any team that steps onto their court.


Fans eager to witness this battle can mark their calendars for February 20th at 9:00 PM EST when Wake Forest looks to continue its winning ways at Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum against Pittsburgh Panthers. The game will also be broadcast nationally on ACC Network channel 612 for those who cannot make it in person but still want a piece of the action from afar.

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