Raleigh, N.C. — NC State fans are flying high again after another big win Thursday night.
The men’s basketball team defeated Texas Tech 80-67 in the first round of the NCAA tournament.
Around campus on Friday, anyone wearing NC State gear was thrilled to talk about the run this team is on.
It’s normal to see all kinds of Wolfpack red throughout NC State’s campus. Over the last week, something feels different.
“It’s just buzzing across campus,” said Sullivan Kojola. “Now that everyone is back from spring break, tomorrow night is going to be even better and it’s a weekend. It’s going to be even better.”
Thursday night’s win over Texas Tech didn’t wrap up until after midnight, but students still rushed the bell tower to celebrate.
The store in the student union is full of new merchandise after the team’s first ACC title in 37 years. That championship, combined with their first tournament win since 2015, has students dreaming of a big tournament run.
“It feels great, especially being a freshman here now,” said student Joey Sabatino. “It’s crazy to come into a season like this.”
Just down the road, fans and alums went out for lunch at Players Retreat. The bar was packed Thursday night with excited fans.
“I’m excited to be able to have another game to watch and get to see the team,” said alum Kenneth Erickson. “I think it’s just exciting to see how much joy they have.”
It was also a late night for senior guard DJ Horne and his family who were at the game in Pittsburgh. On Friday, father Lamar Horne said he feels blessed to watch his son create history.
“It’s just a beautiful thing to witness and as a dad, I’m so appreciative of the opportunity that he’s given us, given me, to enjoy and to remember,” said Lamar Horne.
Now the Wolfpack is on the verge of the Sweet Sixteen. They now face Oakland, who just knocked off 3-seed Kentucky, on Saturday night in the round of 32.
“Jimmy V said it best: Survive and advance!” said Horne. “Survive and advance and go Wolfpack!”
