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Full Breakdown

UAB Basketball Suffers Blowout Loss to NC State

11/9/2025, 12:24:09 AM

Game Overview: NC State Dominates UAB

On November 7, 2025, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) faced a challenging matchup against North Carolina State University (NC State) in Raleigh, North Carolina. The game ended in a decisive 94-70 victory for NC State, marking their second win of the season and leaving UAB with a record of 1-1. UAB managed to stay competitive in the first half, trailing by just eight points at halftime (41-33), but struggled significantly in the second half, allowing NC State to pull away.

Performance Breakdown

UAB's shooting performance was notably poor, finishing the game with a field goal percentage of 40.8% and a dismal 16% from three-point range (4 of 25). In contrast, NC State shot 54% from the floor and improved its three-point shooting after a rocky start, finishing with 10 successful attempts out of 22. UAB's Jacob Meyer led the team with 15 points but faltered in the second half, hitting only one of his last ten shots. Chance Westry also contributed with 14 points.

NC State's offensive efforts were spearheaded by guards Quadir Copeland and Paul McNeil Jr., each scoring 18 points. Darrion Williams, the Preseason ACC Player of the Year, added 14 points and four assists, although he was held to a quieter performance than expected.

Coaching Perspectives

UAB assistant coach Chris Shumate acknowledged the team's initial success but noted the need for improvement, stating, “We just kind of got off our page a little bit. They went on some runs.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining focus throughout the game. Meanwhile, NC State head coach Will Wade expressed dissatisfaction with his team's defensive performance, particularly allowing UAB to score 44 points in the paint. Wade remarked on the need for better shot quality and defensive rotations.

Key Statistics

  • UAB: 40.8% FG, 16% 3PT, 35 rebounds
  • NC State: 54% FG, 45.5% 3PT, 38 rebounds
  • Top Scorers: UAB - Jacob Meyer (15), Chance Westry (14); NC State - Quadir Copeland (18), Paul McNeil Jr. (18)

Looking Ahead

UAB will seek to rebound from this loss in their next game against Alabama State on November 10, 2025. Shumate indicated that the team would focus on actionable improvements, particularly in offensive and defensive execution.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “We needed to improve our shot quality and I thought we did that.” — Will Wade, NC State Head Coach

Conclusion

The game highlighted both the potential and the challenges facing UAB as they navigate the early part of their season. With a focus on improvement, the Blazers aim to build on their initial performances as they prepare for upcoming matchups.