RALEIGH, N.C. — Aziaha James delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 26 points as second-seeded N.C. State set a new program record for three-pointers in an NCAA Tournament, draining 15 in an 83-49 triumph over Michigan State in the women’s second round on Monday.
James was key with six of those baskets from beyond the arc, while Madison Hayes added 17 points and contributed five 3-pointers. Saniya Rivers complemented with 17 points and 11 assists, with Zamareya Jones scoring 12 points for the dominant Wolfpack (28-6).
N.C. State will next face either Florida State or LSU in the Sweet 16 on Friday in Spokane, Washington, marking their sixth Sweet 16 appearance under coach Wes Moore in 12 seasons.
With the team shooting so well, there was little reason to change tactics. “Sometimes I just have to step back and let them play,” Moore admitted. “It was a refreshing change, as we hadn’t been shooting as efficiently recently.”
For Michigan State (22-10), Grace VanSlooten led with 15 points and 11 rebounds, though the Spartans struggled with 3-pointers, managing only 4-of-15. Their aim to return to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2009 fell short.
The game started with N.C. State making 5-of-6 from three-point range and 10-of-13 overall, establishing a 25-9 lead. They reached a season-high with 12 three-pointers less than halfway through the third quarter.
“It’s tough to counter when a team is shooting like that,” VanSlooten remarked.
**Takeaways:**
Michigan State: Suffered its only loss by more than 15 points this season, culminating in their lowest scoring game. “We’ve been known for our defensive runs, but we couldn’t disrupt them today,” coach Robyn Fralick noted.
N.C. State: James and Hayes, both seniors playing their last home game, combined for 32 points, helping their team build a 47-23 halftime lead and securing their 18th consecutive home win.
**Key moment:**
The Wolfpack’s first-quarter five 3-pointers matched their best performance for a quarter this season, a feat they repeated in the subsequent quarter.
**Key stat:**
N.C. State maintained its impressive streak with 20 consecutive home NCAA Tournament wins, remaining undefeated in Raleigh’s tournament games for 42 years.
**It’s a fanfest:**
It was a celebratory atmosphere as the team extended their home winning streak to 23 games since February 2024.
Rivers joined the band for celebrations, and Hayes received a baby over the media post-game. “The relationships we’ve built with the fans are incredible,” Hayes said. James, an upperclassman since her freshman year, lingered for a final ovation from the crowd.
Despite concerns about a weekday noon tip-off, the turnout was strong. “The fans showed up for us, and we responded,” Hayes added.
The enthusiastic environment left an impression on the Spartans. “I’ve never experienced a crowd like this,” VanSlooten commented.
**Historic number:**
This victory marked the Wolfpack’s largest-ever margin in NCAA Tournament history.
“Our experienced players shine under pressure,” Moore said.
**Up next:**
N.C. State is set to compete in the regional stages in the west for the second consecutive year after reaching the Final Four from Portland, Oregon, last year.