DALLAS – In a commanding performance, both Aziaha James and Zoe Brooks netted 19 points each, steering No. 9 N.C. State to a triumphant 69-45 victory over SMU. This win, secured on Sunday, positioned N.C. State as the top seed for the upcoming ACC Tournament.
Madison Hayes contributed significantly to the Wolfpack’s success, adding 18 points and pulling down 11 rebounds. With a season record of 24-5 overall and 16-2 in the conference, N.C. State shared the regular-season conference crown with No. 3 Notre Dame. Their regular season concluded on a high note, boasting four consecutive victories and 20 out of the last 22 games won.
On the other side of the court, Zanai Jones emerged as the leading scorer for the Mustangs with 17 points. Unfortunately, SMU’s inaugural season in the ACC ended on a challenging note, with the team suffering its 14th consecutive loss, capping off a 10-20 season record and 2-16 in conference play.
SMU’s efforts were further hampered by the absence of their top scorer, Nya Robertson, who averages 18.5 points per game and was sidelined due to illness.
N.C. State’s victory sets the Wolfpack on a promising trajectory, likely heading towards a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament, building on last year’s Final Four achievement.
Despite a tough season, standout performances were noted; Jessica Peterson, averaging 10.4 points and 12.1 rebounds, gathered eight points and 10 rebounds in the game. Unfortunately, the Mustangs finished last in the ACC, with their 16 losses setting a new program record. Notably, SMU has not secured a win against a ranked opponent since 2008.
The Wolfpack showcased decisive play, quickly establishing a substantial 15-2 lead within the opening minutes, and stretching their advantage to as much as 25 points throughout the game.
Highlighting a key statistic, the Wolfpack’s Saniya Rivers achieved her seventh double-double of the season, this time without reaching double-digit points. The versatile 6-1 guard tallied four points, collected 13 rebounds, distributed a season-high 11 assists, and seized three steals.
Looking ahead, N.C. State is set to compete in the ACC Tournament quarterfinals this coming Friday.
