N.C. State crushed Michigan State in NCAA Tournament
Michigan State felt confident heading into their NCAA Tournament game against North Carolina State. They had just beaten Harvard and were ranked high for their strong defense. Players boasted they could handle the Wolfpack's talented guards. However, things did not go as planned. N.C. State took control early, quickly jumping to a 27-9 lead by the end of the first quarter. The Wolfpack continued to dominate, ultimately winning 83-49. Coach Wes Moore praised his team for being ready to play and taking charge. The standout players for N.C. State included Aziaha James and Saniya Rivers, who shined with impressive performances. James scored 26 points, while Rivers contributed 17 points, eight rebounds, and 11 assists. Madison Hayes also had a great game, hitting a career-high five 3-pointers. N.C. State set a program record with 15 three-pointers in the game. They achieved their largest margin of victory ever in a March Madness game, finishing the season undefeated at home and extending their winning streak to 23 games at Reynolds Coliseum. In contrast, Michigan State struggled, with their key players struggling to make shots. This loss was their most significant defeat since January 2021. Despite the disappointing outcome for the Spartans, N.C. State’s senior players were determined to continue their success. As they prepare for their next challenge in Spokane, Washington, N.C. State aims to make back-to-back trips to the Final Four, showcasing their skill and determination.