North Carolina State University boasts a rich and storied basketball program, deeply woven into the fabric of college basketball history. From legendary coaches and iconic players to thrilling victories and passionate fans, the NC State Wolfpack has consistently captured the hearts and minds of the sporting world. In recent times, the program has navigated a dynamic landscape, marked by both challenges and moments of resurgence. This article delves into the current state of NC State basketball, examining its recent performance, key personnel, and the burning questions that fans and analysts are asking online.
A Legacy Forged in Red and White: NC State Basketball History
The NC State Wolfpack men’s basketball program officially began varsity intercollegiate competition in 1911 and has since established itself as a prominent force in the NCAA. As a charter member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), the Wolfpack has amassed an impressive record, boasting 11 ACC Tournament championships and 7 regular-season conference titles prior to joining the ACC, and 11 ACC Tournament championships and 13 regular-season conference titles as a member.
The program reached its pinnacle with two NCAA National Championships in 1974 and 1983, iconic seasons etched into college basketball lore. The 1974 championship, led by the legendary David Thompson, is often cited as one of the most memorable title runs in NCAA history. The “Cardiac Pack” of 1983, under the guidance of the charismatic Jim Valvano, captured the nation’s imagination with their improbable tournament journey and stunning championship game victory.
The Wolfpack has also made four Final Four appearances (1950, 1974, 1983, 2024) and appeared in the NCAA Tournament 29 times. The program’s historical success is largely attributed to the tenures of legendary coaches like Everett Case, Norm Sloan, and Jim Valvano, who built a culture of winning and instilled a deep passion for the program within the university and its fanbase. Reynolds Coliseum served as the Wolfpack’s home for 50 years, a hallowed arena that witnessed countless iconic moments before the team moved to the PNC Arena in 1999 (now known as the Lenovo Center).
Recent Performance: Navigating the Modern Era
The recent performance of the NC State Wolfpack has been a subject of much discussion and analysis. Looking at the 2024-25 season, the team finished with an overall record of 12 wins and 19 losses, and a conference record of 5 wins and 15 losses in the ACC. This placed them 16th in the ACC standings. While this season’s record might not reflect the program’s historical highs, it’s crucial to consider the context and the evolving landscape of college basketball.
The 2023-24 season saw a more successful campaign, with the Wolfpack achieving an overall record of 26 wins and 15 losses, including a 9-11 record in the ACC. This culminated in an NCAA Tournament appearance, where they advanced to the National Semifinal as an 11th seed, showcasing the team’s potential to compete at the highest level.
The seasons prior presented a mixed bag of results, highlighting the challenges of maintaining consistent success in a competitive conference like the ACC. The program has seen periods of strong regular-season play followed by early exits in the NCAA Tournament, as well as seasons where making the tournament itself was a significant achievement.
Coaching Staff: The Architect of Success
The head coach plays a pivotal role in shaping the team’s identity, strategy, and success. As mentioned, Will Wade is the current head coach of the NC State men’s basketball program. Wade brings a wealth of head coaching experience from his previous tenures at VCU, LSU, and McNeese State. His resume includes multiple NCAA Tournament berths and a reputation for building competitive teams quickly.
The coaching staff typically includes assistant coaches, a director of basketball operations, strength and conditioning coaches, and athletic trainers, all working collaboratively to support the student-athletes and the program’s goals. The stability and effectiveness of the coaching staff are crucial factors in the long-term success of any basketball program.
FAQs
Who is the head coach of NC State men’s basketball?
As of March 2025, Will Wade is the head coach of NC State men’s basketball. He was officially introduced on March 23, 2025, after leading McNeese State to consecutive Southland Conference titles and NCAA Tournament appearances. Wade brings over a decade of head coaching experience, including stints at VCU, LSU, and McNeese, with seven NCAA Tournament berths under his belt.
What does the 2024–25 NC State men’s basketball schedule look like?
The Wolfpack’s 2024–25 schedule comprises 31 regular-season games, including 20 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) matchups. The team will host 18 games, with 17 at the Lenovo Center and one Heritage Game at Reynolds Coliseum.
Who are the key players on the 2024–25 NC State roster?
The 2024–25 roster features a mix of returning players and new talent:
Mike James: A redshirt junior guard standing at 6’5″ and weighing 200 lbs.
Brandon Huntley-Hatfield: A senior forward, 6’10”, 240 lbs.
Paul McNeil: A sophomore guard, 6’5″, 180 lbs.
Dontrez Styles: A senior guard, 6’6″, 210 lbs.
Jordan Snell: A senior guard, 6’2″, 165 lbs.
How has the transfer portal impacted NC State’s roster?
NC State has been active in the transfer portal, securing commitments from several players to bolster their lineup. Notably, the team has added:
Tre Holloman: A point guard ranked #113 in the portal and #19 at his position.
Quadir Copeland: Another point guard, ranked #264 in the portal and #49 at his position.
These additions aim to strengthen the backcourt and provide depth for the upcoming season.
Who are the notable recruits in NC State’s 2025 class?
The 2025 recruiting class for NC State includes:
Matthew Able: A shooting guard ranked #30 nationally and #6 at his position.
Zymicah Wilkins: A power forward ranked #120 nationally and #20 at his position.
This class is considered strong, with all five commitments rated as 4-star players according to 247Sports.
How did NC State perform in the previous season?
In the 2023–24 season, NC State had a challenging year, finishing with a 12–19 overall record and a 5–15 mark in ACC play.
What is the current status of the 2025–26 roster?
As of May 2025, NC State’s 2025–26 men’s basketball roster includes 10 scholarship players, with three scholarships remaining to be filled. The team recently signed center Paul Mbiya, adding size and depth to the frontcourt.
Where can I find the latest news and updates on NC State basketball?
For the most recent news, updates, and in-depth analysis on NC State basketball, you can visit:
To conclude
NC State men’s basketball is entering a new era under the leadership of head coach Will Wade. With a blend of experienced players and promising new talent, the Wolfpack aims to rebound from a challenging 2023–24 season. The team’s active engagement in the transfer portal and a strong 2025 recruiting class signal a commitment to building a competitive program. As the 2024–25 season approaches, fans can look forward to an exciting schedule and the potential for significant growth on the court.
To read more , click here
