The atmosphere was electric as UConn’s women’s basketball team stormed into Reynolds Coliseum on Sunday. But NC State was not intimidated. In a stunning upset, the Wolfpack emerged victorious with a scoreline of 92-81. This marked the first time since 1998 that NC State had defeated UConn.

Saniya Rivers was the standout player for NC State, delivering a sensational performance with 33 points, 10 rebounds, three blocked shots, five assists, and three steals. She went toe-to-toe with UConn’s star players, Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and Aaliyah Edwards, and outshined them all.

NC State, despite losing their top scorers from last season, took control of the game in the third quarter and maintained their lead. Wolfpack coach Wes Moore had stressed the importance of showing up early in the game and his team exceeded expectations. Led by Rivers, NC State has set a high bar for this season, with a hungry and determined squad by their side.

Breakout performances

In addition to Rivers’ dominance, another player who stood out for NC State was freshman guard Zoe Brooks. Despite coming off the bench and playing only her second game in college, Brooks showcased immense talent. She scored in double figures by halftime and made crucial contributions to the team’s offense. Brooks displayed her ability to finish at the rim, disrupt UConn’s offense, and push the tempo on fast breaks.

River Baldwin also deserve recognition for her exceptional performance in the post. Though her stats may not have stood out, she played a pivotal role in preventing the Huskies from establishing a strong presence in the paint. Aziaha James added 18 points, Madison Hayes contributed 10, and Mimi Collins displayed her versatility with 8 points and 8 rebounds.

On the UConn side, Bueckers led the team with 27 points, followed by Edwards with 21 points and Fudd with 9. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t match the intensity and brilliance of NC State.

The NC ties

The game between NC State and UConn marked the conclusion of a two-season home-and-home series. But the connection between the two teams runs deeper. UConn coach Geno Auriemma and NC State coach Wes Moore have crossed paths before. Auriemma previously served as an assistant coach in the ACC, and Moore had been an assistant to Kay Yow before becoming head coach.

Furthermore, UConn star Azzi Fudd has a connection to NC State as well. Fudd’s mother, Katie Smrcka-Duffy Fudd, was a former NC State women’s basketball player. Another notable figure is Shea Ralph, who played a crucial role in Auriemma’s early years at UConn. Ralph, a graduate of Terry Sanford High in Fayetteville, helped deliver one of UConn’s national championships before becoming a successful head coach herself.

What’s next?

NC State’s victory over UConn has set the stage for an exciting season ahead. The Wolfpack will look to build on this monumental win as they face Elon and Rhode Island in their upcoming games. They will then travel to the US Virgin Islands to participate in the Paradise Jam, where they will encounter Kentucky.

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