Raleigh residents got an early reason to celebrate as the NC State men’s basketball team rolled past Presbyterian College 94‑60 on Tuesday night, delivering a dominant performance that set a positive tone for the new season.
According to WRAL, forward Ven‑Allen Lubin recorded a season‑high 21 points while pulling down 10 rebounds, posting a double‑double that anchored the Wolfpack’s offense. Lubin shot 10‑of‑17 from the floor and contributed 14 first‑half points as NC State built an 18‑5 run early, capped by a Darius Adams three‑pointer, to take a double‑digit lead midway through the first half.
The Wolfpack led 46‑19 at halftime after a strong start, and the Blue Hose struggled offensively, shooting just 6‑of‑24 and missing all six of their three‑point attempts in the half. NC State finished the game shooting 38‑of‑73 overall, with Paul McNeil Jr. adding a double‑double of 12 points and 12 rebounds, and Christian Hammond contributing 13 points. The Wolfpack’s 34‑point margin of victory was the largest of the season so far.
HyperLocal Loop noted that the win energized fans at Reynolds Coliseum, describing the home crowd’s excitement as the team “settled into its home court” and “gave Raleigh fans plenty to cheer about.” The outlet also highlighted that the fast‑paced start allowed head coach Kevin Keatts to rotate the roster and evaluate the full squad early in the campaign.
Both outlets reported that the victory is part of a homestand for the Wolfpack, giving local supporters multiple opportunities to watch the team in action. The win also comes as the women’s team prepares for a home matchup against Liberty, promising a busy basketball weekend for the City of Oaks.
Looking ahead, Presbyterian will host Mercer on Nov. 18, while NC State returns to Reynolds Coliseum on Friday to face Troy.
What’s next: Raleigh fans can attend the upcoming home game against Troy on Friday, where the Wolfpack will look to extend their early‑season momentum. The next Presbyterian game is scheduled for Nov. 18 against Mercer.
Sources: wral.com, hyperlocalloop.com
