North Carolina State University Athletics
MORE: Wolfpack Surging At The Right Time
2/21/2015 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Backcourt Puts Pack On Winning Track
As Selection Sunday looms, the Wolfpack clinched a much needed win against Virginia Tech, taking care of business in a 69-53 win.
Trevor Lacey said, "It's just good to win. It doesn't matter how, we just want to win."
The talented backcourt duo led the team in points against No. 12/13 Louisville last week, ultimately pushing the squad to a quality road win. After posting a combined 35 points against the Louisville Cardinals, Trevor Lacey and Anthony 'Cat' Barber finished with a combined 25 points on Saturday night.
Playing against a Virginia Tech team shooting close to 50 percent from the three-point line during the first half, the Wolfpack's defense was a key factor to the game. Forcing eight turnovers and grabbing 28 total rebounds, the team was able to limit the Hokies to only six shots during the second half.
The Wolfpack held Virginia Tech point guard Devin Wilson to only four points, contributing to the stifling defense shown by NC State. BeeJay Anya's defensive prowess was highlighted through his seven rebounds and three blocks.
After halftime, the Wolfpack was able to trade roles with the Hokies, earning 18 points from behind the three point line.
Senior Ralston Turner was able to find his niche, consistently hitting shots from the wing. Crediting the team's effort, Turner said, "You know at this time of the year you want to continue to get better and play some of your better basketball."
"Ralston had another great game. He's been rehabbing and getting treatment so I guess today he felt well," said Barber.
The Pack are making positive strides en route to March Madness. Next game is away at North Carolina on Tuesday, February 24, tipoff set for 8pm.
-- by Kendra Stowe
Playing Strong When It Counts
With March approaching, NC State is not only looking to make a #STATEment in the ACC tournament but in the NCAA tournament as well.
As the end of the season approaches, Wolfpack are adding resume-building wins. The Pack followed up an impressive road win over No. 12/13 Louisville with a solid 69-53 win over Virginia Tech.
In recent seasons, a late surge has been a characteristic of State heading into post-season play. Last season the Pack won three of their last five and could improve that mark this season.
The Pack's backcourt has played a vital role in the team's success near the end of the season.
Trevor Lacey and Ralston Turner were the facilitators for the Wolfpack's win over Virginia Tech, combining for 32 points and almost 50 percent shooting from the field.
Anthony 'Cat' Barber has also continued his hot streak, averaging 18.6 points over the last five games, which is above his season average for the year.
Reeling off wins are important in this stretch of the season. With this one, the Wolfpack move into a tie for 7th in the ACC.
With four regular season ACC games remaining, State can make a run at a top-four seed, which would earn it a double-bye in the conference tournament.
The Wolfpack is away at North Carolina on Tuesday, Feb. 24. Game time is set for 8 p.m.
-- by Caslee Sims
