NC State head coach Will Wade recently addressed the media ahead of the upcoming matchup against SMU, discussing his team’s performance, the importance of consistency, and the challenges in their tough schedule.
As the Wolfpack prepare for their game against SMU, Wade highlighted the strength of the Mustangs’ guard play, particularly praising players like Miller, Edwards, and Pierre for their ability to make challenging shots and control the pace of the game. He noted the significance of Washington as a key contributor, acknowledging that the team’s impressive personnel will need to step up in this critical matchup.
Wade reflected on the importance of maintaining defensive intensity, especially with a challenging slate ahead. He stated that while NC State has performed well against lower-ranked teams, they face tougher competition against the top teams in the conference, emphasizing the need for improvement in this area. The coach praised his team’s recent performance, noting a four-game winning streak attributed to their effective ball movement and offensive efficiency.
The discussion also touched on standout player Williams, who has made a smooth transition to the ACC, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Wade pointed out Williams’ natural ability to create plays, saying, “Something good is going to happen for NC State” when he has the ball.
Wade believes that the team is on an upward trajectory but still has room for growth. He acknowledged that while they are performing better than a few weeks ago, they have yet to reach their peak potential. He emphasized the importance of shooting high-quality shots, explaining that improved spacing has contributed to their offensive success.
Regarding the performance of Darrion, who has consistently hit threes in recent games, Wade expressed his satisfaction with the progress he’s made. He highlighted the importance of consistent opportunities for shooters to enhance their productivity.
Terrance Arceneaux has also shown significant development in recent weeks, making impactful contributions on both ends of the court. Wade commended Arceneaux for his athleticism and defensive prowess, which he believes will be crucial against the effective SMU backcourt.
As the team heads into a series of challenging road games, Wade reflected on their undefeated record on the road this season, attributing it to the team’s strong chemistry and focus on maintaining a “next-play” mentality. He also discussed SMU’s Miller, labeling him as a top competitor who excels in pick-and-roll situations and is adept at drawing fouls.
Additionally, Wade expressed appreciation for center Ven Lubin, who has been a consistent force for the team. The head coach recognized Lubin’s contributions and the challenge posed by SMU’s physically imposing center.
Wade concluded by remarking on the impressive depth of the current freshman class nationwide, reflecting a trend that could significantly impact the NCAA tournament landscape. He praised the talent within the ACC, noting that several standout freshmen are enhancing the league’s competitiveness and prospects for tournament bids.
As NC State prepares for their pivotal game against SMU, the emphasis on teamwork, strategic improvement, and developing player chemistry remains at the forefront of Wade’s coaching philosophy. With the season’s intensity ramping up, the Wolfpack are poised for a critical stretch that could define their postseason chances.