NC State Shocks Tennessee in NCAA Upset!

NC State Stuns Tennessee in Thrilling NCAA Opener

The NCAA Tournament kicked off with a bang as the 7-seed NC State Wolfpack pulled off a stunning upset, eliminating the 10-seed Tennessee Volunteers with a hard-fought victory. The Lady Volunteers, who entered the game trying to shake off a tough seven-game losing streak to end their regular season, couldn’t find an answer for NC State’s relentless offense and clutch play, particularly from their standout guards.

Wolfpack Roar Out of the Gate

NC State came out firing, hitting their first five shots of the game. Their aggressive style, which mirrors how Tennessee often plays, seemed to catch the Volunteers off guard. Guards like Zam Jones and Zoe Brooks were instrumental, pushing the pace and finding open looks. Brooks showed great skill, driving to the basket and hitting tough shots. Jones also contributed with pull-up jumpers, including a crucial three-pointer that forced a Tennessee timeout early in the game.

The Wolfpack’s ability to handle pressure and limit turnovers was key. They showcased their strength in hitting corner threes, a skill that has made them one of the best in college basketball this season. Tilda Triger found her rhythm early, knocking down a three-pointer that energized her team. Brooks continued her strong start, hitting mid-range shots and navigating double teams with ease.

“Welcome to the tournament NC State!”

The intensity was palpable as NC State continued their hot shooting, making their first six shots and demonstrating their readiness for the big stage.

Tennessee Fights Back, But Can’t Close the Gap

Despite NC State’s early surge, Tennessee battled back. Freshman Kaela Lunan checked in and hit a key three-pointer, showing the depth that Tennessee often relies on. Nia Robertson also made a defensive play, leading to a fast-break layup for her team. Camille Pierre started to find her scoring touch, contributing baskets in the paint. However, Tennessee struggled with consistency, often finding themselves in a scoring drought, making just one of eight shots at one point in the first half.

The game remained a high-possession affair, with no lead feeling safe. Turnovers plagued Tennessee early, giving NC State extra opportunities. Players like Kasiya Samuels, a transfer from UConn’s national championship team, showed flashes of brilliance with transition threes and offensive rebounds. Sam Jones made a spectacular shot off the glass while under duress, highlighting NC State’s ability to score even when pressured.

Second Half Sees NC State Extend Lead

As the third quarter began, NC State continued to build on their lead. Cooper was a consistent scoring threat for Tennessee, hitting multiple baskets in a row and leading all scorers at times. However, NC State’s defense focused on making her go left, where she is less effective. Triger added an offensive stick-back, and Tennessee attempted to make a run with a couple of threes. But NC State responded, with players like Pierre and Sam Jones hitting crucial shots, including a big corner three that swung momentum back in their favor.

Sam Jones, who had a hand in 22 points for her team at one point, continued to be a major factor. Her ability to create space and hit open shots, especially when the ball was moved effectively, kept the Wolfpack ahead. Cooper managed to hit another tough shot off one leg, and Pierre continued to score in the post. Despite Tennessee’s efforts, NC State’s execution, especially on offensive rebounds and timely baskets, kept them in control.

Pierre and Jones Seal the Deal

In the final quarter, NC State refused to let Tennessee back in the game. Pierre showed her strength in the post, carving out space and finishing strong. Samuels added another score off an inbound play, showcasing NC State’s sharp execution. Tennessee tried to overplay, but NC State capitalized, with Cooper hitting a basket and then getting a steal. The defining moment came when Sam Jones, who played every second of the game, hit a milestone 30 points. With numbers on a fast break, Pierre sealed the victory with an open layup, securing the win for the 7-seed NC State Wolfpack.

NC State’s victory sends them to the second round, where they will face Michigan. Tennessee’s season concludes with a 16-14 record, a disappointing end after a season that saw them lose their final regular-season game, their first SEC tournament game, and now a first-round NCAA matchup.

Source: Round of 64: Tennessee vs. NC State | Full Game Highlights | NCAA Tournament (YouTube)