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NC State Basketball Breaks Into AP Top 25

11/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

NC State men's basketball entered the AP Top 25 for the first time under Will Wade, ranking No. 25 after a 3-0 start to the 2025-26 season.
The Wolfpack defeated NC Central, UAB, and UNC Greensboro, averaging over 106 points per game.
Darrion Williams leads with 21.7 points per game.
NC State defeated VCU 85-79, showing offensive strength but rebounding and perimeter defense weaknesses ahead of the Maui Invitational.

History

Historical Context

In 1974, NC State's men's basketball team, coached by Norm Sloan, achieved a historic NCAA Championship victory, finishing the season with a remarkable 30-1 record. This triumph included defeating the dominant UCLA team, which had won seven consecutive titles. The legacy of this championship continues to inspire current players, such as Darrion Williams, who leads with 21.7 points per game, reflecting the program's enduring competitive spirit.

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Story summary

NC State men's basketball entered the AP Top 25 for the first time under Will Wade, ranking No. 25 after a 3-0 start to the 2025-26 season.
The Wolfpack defeated NC Central, UAB, and UNC Greensboro, averaging over 106 points per game.
Darrion Williams leads with 21.7 points per game.
NC State defeated VCU 85-79, showing offensive strength but rebounding and perimeter defense weaknesses ahead of the Maui Invitational.

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