In a nail-biting exhibition game, the NC State Wolfpack held off a late surge from the Lees-McRae Bobcats to secure a 79-75 victory, setting the stage for an exciting 2024-25 season. The Wolfpack's performance showcased both their strengths and areas for improvement, providing a glimpse into the team's potential and the challenges they may face in the upcoming campaign.

Wolfpack Survives Bobcats' Comeback Attempt in Preseason Thriller

Wolfpack Jumps Out to Early Lead, but Struggles to Maintain Momentum

The Wolfpack came out of the gates strong, establishing a sizable lead early in the game. Jayden Taylor led the charge, contributing 12 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals. However, the team's shooting woes plagued them throughout the contest, as they shot just 38.7% from the field and a mere 20% from behind the arc. The Wolfpack's defensive intensity also waned in the second half, allowing the Bobcats to claw their way back into the game.

Bobcats Tie the Game Multiple Times, but Wolfpack Holds On

The Bobcats refused to go down without a fight, tying the game on multiple occasions in the closing minutes. The Wolfpack's inability to maintain their early lead put them in a precarious position, forcing them to rely on late-game free throws to secure the victory. The team's lack of consistency on both ends of the court proved to be a significant challenge, and they will need to address these issues before the start of the regular season.

Wolfpack's Bench Provides Valuable Contributions

Despite the Wolfpack's struggles, the team's depth proved to be a valuable asset. Every player who stepped onto the court for the Pack managed to score, showcasing the team's versatility and the potential for different players to step up on any given night. Bryce Heard and Breon Pass each made three shots, while Dontrez Styles finished with 9 points and 9 rebounds, providing a solid performance off the bench.

Wolfpack's Final Tuneup Offers Glimpse of Potential and Challenges Ahead

The Wolfpack's final exhibition game before the 2024-25 season was a rollercoaster ride, filled with both promising moments and areas of concern. While the team's early dominance and balanced scoring were encouraging, their defensive lapses and shooting struggles highlighted the work that still needs to be done. As the Wolfpack prepares for the regular season, they will need to address these issues and find a way to maintain their intensity and execution for the full 40 minutes of play.