NC State Women’s Basketball Dominates UNC to Secure ACC Final Spot!

In a thrilling semifinal matchup of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) tournament, the NC State women’s basketball team showcased their dominance by defeating their longtime rivals, the University of North Carolina (UNC), with a score of 66-55 on March 8, 2025. This victory not only secures NC State a coveted spot in the ACC championship game but also highlights their impressive season performance and strong team dynamics.

The game, held in Greensboro, was highly anticipated, pitting two fierce rivals against each other. Fans from both sides filled the stands, creating an electric atmosphere that underscored the intensity of the rivalry. NC State established an early lead, going up by 11 points after the first quarter, and later extending it to 17 points in the first half, setting the tone for the remainder of the game.

Aziaha James was a standout performer for the Wolfpack, leading the team with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Her scoring ability and tenacity on the boards were crucial in maintaining NC State’s momentum throughout the game. “We knew we had to come out strong and set the pace early,” James said after the game. “Our defense was key, and we played for each other.”

Saniya Rivers also played a pivotal role, contributing significantly to both the scoring and defensive efforts, particularly during the crucial third quarter. Her ability to disrupt UNC’s offensive flow was instrumental in keeping the Tar Heels at bay. The Wolfpack’s defensive prowess was evident, as they held UNC to a mere 28% shooting percentage, compared to their own 40%. This stark contrast in shooting accuracy highlighted NC State’s strategic focus on defense.

One of the game’s early highlights was Tilda Trygger, NC State’s towering 6-foot-6 center, who scored the first 8 points of the game, demonstrating her improved post play. Her presence in the paint was a constant challenge for UNC, forcing them to adjust their defensive schemes. Additionally, Lorena Awou provided valuable support off the bench, scoring a season-high 10 points, further contributing to the team’s overall success.

The victory marks NC State’s fifth appearance in the ACC championship game in the last six seasons, a testament to their consistent performance in the tournament. The Wolfpack will face No. 3-seeded Duke in the championship game, adding another layer of excitement to an already thrilling tournament. “We’re ready for the challenge,” said head coach Wes Moore. “Duke is a great team, but we’re focused on playing our game and executing our strategy.”

For UNC, the loss drops their season record to 27-7, leaving them to await their NCAA Tournament bid announcement. The defeat serves as a bitter reminder of their earlier one-point loss to NC State earlier in the season, making this semifinal matchup a significant redemption opportunity for the Wolfpack. Despite the setback, UNC has had a strong season and will likely receive a favorable seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

As the game concluded, fans and analysts alike began to speculate about NC State’s prospects in the championship game. With their recent performance against UNC, the Wolfpack have proven they are a formidable contender. “They’ve really hit their stride at the right time,” commented a sports analyst during the post-game discussion. “Their defense is championship caliber, and if they keep this up, they could make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.”

As NC State prepares for the championship game, their strong showing against UNC serves as a confidence booster. The Wolfpack’s ability to execute their game plan, combined with their depth of talent, positions them well for the challenges ahead. Fans eagerly anticipate how this momentum will carry them into the final showdown and beyond.

In conclusion, the NC State women’s basketball team’s victory over UNC in the ACC semifinals not only secures their spot in the championship game but also reinforces their status as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball. With key players stepping up and a solid defensive strategy, the Wolfpack are poised for continued success as they aim for an ACC title and a strong showing in the NCAA Tournament. The excitement is palpable as they prepare to face Duke, and fans are eager to see if NC State can capitalize on their momentum and bring home the championship trophy.