The N.C. State Wolfpack basketball team faced a nerve-wracking start to their 2024-25 season, narrowly escaping a potential upset against Division II Lees-McRae in a thrilling 79-75 exhibition victory. Despite building a 21-point lead early in the second half, the Wolfpack had to fight back from a late Bobcats surge to secure the win at the Lenovo Center.

Wolfpack Showcases Depth and Resilience in Preseason Clash

Newcomers Shine, but Veteran Leadership Prevails

The Wolfpack's retooled roster, featuring eight newcomers, was put to the test against the feisty Bobcats. While the team struggled with turnovers and was outscored 50-35 in the second half, head coach Kevin Keatts was quick to draw parallels to last season's success. "As we saw last year, a close exhibition win can be a precursor to a magical postseason run," Keatts noted in his postgame press conference.The Wolfpack's veteran leadership, led by guards Michael O'Connell and Jayden Taylor, proved crucial in the closing minutes. When the game was tied at 69 with just over three minutes remaining, the duo stepped up, sparking a 7-0 run to seal the victory. Taylor's clutch free throw in the final seconds put the game out of reach for the Bobcats.

Depth and Versatility on Display

The Wolfpack's retooled roster showcased its depth and versatility, with several newcomers making an impact. Former UNC wing Dontrez Styles, who joined the team via the transfer portal, had a solid debut, contributing nine points and eight rebounds despite early foul trouble.Bowling Green transfer Marcus Hill joined O'Connell, Taylor, Styles, and Louisville transfer Brandon Huntley-Hatfield in the starting lineup, demonstrating the team's wealth of talent. Meanwhile, senior reserve Breon Pass provided a much-needed spark off the bench, finishing with nine points and two steals.The Wolfpack's injury report was not without its concerns, as sophomore forward Dennis Parker Jr. and Louisville transfer Mike James were sidelined with injuries. However, the team's depth and resilience were on full display, suggesting that the Wolfpack may have the tools to navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.

Establishing a New Identity

With the departure of key contributors Jarkel Joiner, Terquavion Smith, DJ Burns, and DJ Horne from last season's Final Four squad, the Wolfpack faces the task of establishing a new identity. The exhibition game against Lees-McRae provided a glimpse into the team's potential go-to scorers, with Taylor and Hill stepping up in crunch time.As the Wolfpack prepares for its season opener against USC Upstate on November 4th, the team will look to build on the lessons learned from this close call. The unveiling of two new banners at the Lenovo Center, commemorating the program's ACC Tournament championship and Final Four appearance, will serve as a constant reminder of the high expectations surrounding this year's squad.The Wolfpack's ability to overcome adversity and find new sources of scoring will be crucial as they embark on their quest to defend their conference title and make another deep postseason run. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, the 2024-25 Wolfpack appears poised to write a new chapter in the program's storied history.