Following a stunning upset of top-seeded Texas, the women’s basketball team at North Carolina State pulled off a historic triumph on Sunday, making it to the Final Four for just the second time in program history.
In the Elite Eight matchup, the Wolfpack made a statement with a final score of 76-66, led by an incredible performance by Aziaha James.
Although Maddie Booker of Texas demonstrated her abilities in her first visit to this round of the competition, James turned out to be the main factor in NC State’s victory.
Her outstanding demonstration of talent and tenacity highlighted her crucial part in leading the Wolfpack to victory and guaranteeing their place in the Final Four.
Aziaha James Shines as NC State Punches Final Four Ticket
Texas struggled to establish a rhythm early in the game, which gave NC State a decisive advantage.
The Wolfpack had a commanding 40-22 lead at the break and were well-positioned to start the second half.
Texas attempted to rally, cutting the lead to just ten points in the third quarter, but they were unable to stop James, who was still very good on both sides of the court.
James had a tremendous performance, going 7 of 10 for 21 points, including a perfect 5-for-5 shooting clip from beyond the arc in only the first half.
James was able to be contained by Texas in the third quarter, but NC State was able to hold onto their advantage because of the efforts of her teammates River Baldwin and Mimi Collins.
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NC State’s Big Three Power Past Texas, Secure Final Four Berth
Collins contributed ten points to the scoreboard, while Baldwin ended the game with sixteen points. With six more points from James in the last quarter, the star player finished with a career-high 27 points.
NC State maintained composure in the face of a late Texas charge, winning and moving on to the Final Four.
With this victory, the No. 3 seed Wolfpack established themselves as strong competitors, ending the tournament career of the No. 1 seed Longhorns.
Looking ahead, NC State’s meeting versus South Carolina, the undefeated No. 1 seed, is sure to be exciting in the Final Four.
The Wolfpack may take heart from their outstanding performance against Texas as they get ready for this crucial game.
They know they have what it takes to play at the highest level and possibly win the biggest reward in women’s college basketball.
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