North Carolina State University Athletics
Pack's Defensive Numbers Take a Hit
1/10/2000 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Prior to Saturday night's game at North Carolina, NC State was number one in most of the ACC's defensive statistics, including field goal percentage defense. It's amazing how just one game can change things.
After holding their first eleven opponents to 37.8 percent field goal shooting, the Wolfpack was hit with an offensive bomb in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels connected on an astounding 71.1 percent of their shots (27-38) for the game and 78.9 percent in the second half.
As a result, NC State has dropped from first to sixth in field goal percentage defense. And UNC's incredible offensive output really skewed the numbers. The average field goal percentage vs. NC State jumped up two percentage points to 39.8 percent.
This is a Wolfpack team that takes great pride in its defense. Needless to say, some egos took a hit on Saturday night.
"It does hurt a little bit," confessed Wolfpack guard Justin Gainey. "They did a real good job of executing. We had a little slippage in executing our scouting report. It hurts because we know we can play a lot better than that. We've just got to bounce back and be ready for Virginia."
On the bright side, NC State did force 20 North Carolina turnovers and came away with 13 steals on Saturday night. In this week's updated ACC statistics, the Wolfpack continues to lead the league in average steals per game (11.8) and turnover margin (5.7).
NC State is also first in scoring defense.
Other notes***The Wolfpack was ranked 33rd in Monday's RPI. Wolfpack freshman Damien Wilkins is third in the ACC in offensive rebounds (3.17) and is ninth overall in rebounds (6.7). State's Anthony Grundy is averaging 2.8 steals per game to lead the ACC in that category.
The Coach Herb Sendek Radio Show can be heard Monday night on the Wolfpack Capitol Sports Network and via the internet on GOPACK.com. Airtime from Crowley's Courtyard is 7:00 p.m. eastern.
Wednesday night's game against Virginia at the Entertainment and Sports Arena will not be televised. Radio coverage on the Network and the web site begins at 7:00 p.m.
