Wolfpack Dominates Clemson Tigers 71-49: Can Momentum Carry to Boston?
The North Carolina State Wolfpack, ranked 7th nationally, secured a commanding victory over the Clemson Tigers with a final score of 71-49. The Wolfpack now holds an impressive record of 20-3, while the Tigers stand at a less fortunate 10-13.
From the outset, the North Carolina State team set a strong pace with a first-quarter lead of 23 points against Clemson's 15. The momentum continued into the second quarter as they added another 20 points to their tally. Although there was a slight dip in their scoring during the third quarter with only 12 points, they bounced back in the fourth to seal their triumph with an additional 16 points.
The Wolfpack's defensive game was particularly noteworthy; they amassed an impressive total of 16 steals and blocked six shots from the Tigers. Offensively, they were just as dominant with an overall field goal percentage of around half at precisely fifty percent for two-point attempts and forty-five percent for all field goals attempted.
A key factor in their success was their ability to capitalize on turnovers; NCST scored twenty-four points off turnovers compared to fifteen by Clemson. They also outperformed in rebounds grabbing forty-three compared to thirty by the home team which included seven offensive boards leading to seventeen second-chance points.
NCST's players showed excellent teamwork throughout, evidenced by nineteen assists which contributed significantly to their scoring opportunities. Despite being less effective from beyond the arc shooting thirty-two percent for three-pointers and only forty-six percent from free throw line, it did not hinder them from maintaining control over the game flow.
On Clemson's side despite struggling against NCST’s defense and committing twenty turnovers which led directly to scores for NCST, they managed six blocks and had nine steals showing moments of resilience on defense. Their shooting percentages were lower across all categories including thirty-six percent field goal shooting overall and just twenty-six percent from three-point range but excelled at free throws making eighty-three percent.
As fans look ahead after this convincing win by NCST, attention turns towards their next challenge against Boston College Eagles at Silvio O. Conte Forum on January 28th at 2 PM Eastern Time. This away game will be available for viewing on ACC Network Extra via internet broadcast networks ensuring that supporters can follow every play as it unfolds.