RALEIGH, N.C. — Aziaha James delivered an impressive performance by scoring 22 points, while Madison Hayes recorded a double-double as the No. 21 North Carolina State Wolfpack secured an 83-67 victory over Pittsburgh on Thursday evening.
James showcased her shooting prowess by making six three-pointers, just shy of her career best. With this victory, the Wolfpack improved their record to 13-4 overall and 5-1 in the Atlantic Coast Conference. This win marks their 15th consecutive home victory and their 10th straight win against the Panthers, who now hold a record of 9-10 and 1-5 in conference play. Hayes contributed with 13 points and secured 10 rebounds, marking her first double-double of the season.
Saniya Rivers also played a vital role for NC State, scoring 15 points and dishing out seven assists. Zoe Brooks added 14 points, along with six rebounds and four assists to the team’s efforts.
For Pittsburgh, Khadija Faye stood out with a career-best 28 points, converting 12 of 22 attempts. Marley Washenitz contributed 16 points, while Mikayla Johnson added 11 points, with each player also grabbing six rebounds.
The first quarter saw Brooks leading NC State to a 23-16 advantage. Faye and Washenitz were crucial for Pittsburgh, combining their efforts to keep the team competitive. In the second quarter, Brooklynn Miles tied the game at 32 after making two free throws. However, James responded promptly with a three-pointer, allowing the Wolfpack to take a 39-35 lead heading into halftime.
In the third quarter, Rivers scored 10 points, extending NC State’s lead to 63-54. Pittsburgh was looking to build on their recent momentum after achieving the largest comeback in NCAA women’s basketball history, having overturned a 32-point deficit against SMU to win 72-59. The Panthers mounted an impressive rally after being down 49-18 at halftime, managing to outscore their opponents 28-0 in the third quarter.
Looking ahead, NC State will face Virginia at home on Sunday, while Pittsburgh will take on No. 14 North Carolina, also on Sunday.
