NC State Tops Virginia Tech 82-73 Behind Copeland's Double-Double

NC State secured a significant 82-73 victory over Virginia Tech, driven by Quadir Copeland's outstanding performance. The Wolfpack's point guard posted 21 points and 10 assists, guiding his team to a crucial conference win. Paul McNeil Jr. also contributed 21 points, while Tre Holloman added 16 points to the effort. The win marked a strong team performance, with NC State's depth proving too much for the Hokies to handle.

At halftime, NC State held a 12-point lead, with the score at 36-24. Virginia Tech, however, refused to back down, mounting a strong second-half surge. Amani Hansberry led the charge for the Hokies, scoring 19 points and grabbing 7 rebounds. Tobi Lawal also had a notable game, tallying 17 points and 15 rebounds. Despite their best efforts, the Hokies were unable to overcome the deficit, ultimately falling short by 9 points.

The outcome was largely in line with pre-game expectations, as CHD Scout had predicted an NC State win by 12.9 points. Although the actual margin was slightly narrower, the Wolfpack's victory validated the forecast. The win was a reflection of NC State's resilience and ability to close out games against tough opponents.

This matchup had notable implications for both teams' tournament resumes. For NC State, the win counts as a Quad 2 victory, bolstering their already strong profile. With a current net ranking of 25, the Wolfpack continue to solidify their position as a formidable force in the conference. On the other hand, Virginia Tech's loss, although a Quad 1 defeat, still hurts their chances. The Hokies, currently ranked 57 in the net rankings, must regroup and focus on their remaining schedule to strengthen their tournament bid.

The significance of this win for NC State cannot be overstated. As the season enters its final stretch, every conference victory is crucial. The Wolfpack's ability to take down a tough opponent like Virginia Tech demonstrates their readiness for the postseason. With their roster depth and talented players like Copeland, NC State is poised to make a deep run in the tournament.