The Pack loses another 2nd half double-digit lead
Game Summary:
NC State shot well in the first half (40% / 35.3% / 84.6%), always nice to see but you worry about their ability to shoot well for two halves. Miami was a one man show, Cleveland took almost half their shots and scored 16 of their 31 points. For the Wolfpack, Styles was smoking hot 4-5/2-2 for 14 points. McNeil came in and hit 3-5 from 3PT. Breon, who was so hot last game, was 0-5. Halftime score 41-31 Wolfpack.
The critical issue was the only thing the Pack has done well this season, turnovers. Seven turnovers in the second half was a killer. This is a model we’ve seen too many times this season. (UVA & VT come to mind) A double-digit lead in the second half, followed by the inability to score in the last few minutes of the game. Final score of the season, 72-70 Miami.
Overall Takeaways:
- NO ROAD WINS FOR A WHOLE SEASON
- Ugly finish, O’Connell getting his shot blocked in the critical possession.
- It was obvious that this game (though meaningless) was important to the staff and players. They played hard and hustled.
- The Wolfpack never did figure out rebounding. Miami was missing their dominate rebounder but the Pack was unable to take advantage, losing the boards 33-32.
- All 9 players in the box score had assists
Individual Highlights
- Styles finished his career strong with 24 points
- Marcus Hill led rebounding with 7
- O’Connell led assists with 4
- Styles had two blocks