Preston Edmead orchestrated a decisive second-half turnaround for N.C. State, recording a 20-point, 10-assist double-double as the Wolfpack defeated East Tennessee State 77-63 on Friday night in Raleigh. The victory marks the second consecutive win for the Wolfpack under first-year head coach Justin Gainey, who previously played point guard for the program from 1996 to 2000. Edmead’s playmaking was pivotal in dismantling the Buccaneers’ defense, facilitating a balanced offensive attack that capitalized on crucial momentum shifts late in the game.
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Paul McNeil Jr. provided the necessary perimeter firepower, scoring 16 points and sinking five of the team’s 13 three-pointers. The Wolfpack’s shooting efficiency was a defining factor in the comeback, particularly after East Tennessee State (0-2) built a 48-38 lead early in the second half. Marqus Marion sparked a 12-3 run for ETSU, but NC State responded with a 15-0 sequence featuring threes from McNeil, Eemeli Yalaho, and RJ Keene to seize a 57-52 lead midway through the period. The Wolfpack’s composure at the line was equally impressive, converting all 12 of their free-throw attempts to maintain pressure throughout the closing minutes.
The game was effectively sealed when McNeil delivered a four-point play with 3:44 remaining, extending the lead to 70-59 and initiating a 13-4 closing run. Tyran Mason led East Tennessee State with 14 points, with five players reaching double figures, but the Buccaneers could not sustain their early second-half surge against NC State’s resilient defense. This result highlights the Wolfpack’s improved ability to execute under pressure, setting a strong tone for the remainder of the season as they look to build on their recent momentum.
Source: Yahoo Sports
