N.C. State Reaches Elite Eight For First Time Since 1986

Marquette's Kam Jones (1) drives against North Carolina State's DJ Burns Jr. (30) during the second half of a Sweet 16 college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament in Dallas, Friday, March 29, 2024.

DJ Horne led North Carolina State to a 67-58 victory over Marquette, propelling the Wolfpack to the Elite Eight for the first time since 1986. Horne's 19 points, along with Casey Morsell's 15 points and Mohamed Diarra's 11 points and 15 rebounds, secured N.C. State's eighth consecutive win since the ACC Tournament.

The Wolfpack, seeded 11th in the South Region, are on a remarkable run, facing Duke next in an all-ACC showdown for a spot in the Final Four. This achievement marks a significant milestone for N.C. State, reminiscent of their 1974 national championship win against Marquette.

Coach Kevin Keatts has guided this underdog team, emphasizing the program's rich history and legacy. The Wolfpack's dominant performance was highlighted by DJ Burns Jr.'s impactful play, contributing a spinning layup and five assists.

N.C. State secures eighth consecutive win since ACC Tournament.

DJ Horne scores 19 points in N.C. State's victory.

Coach Kevin Keatts emphasizes program's rich history and legacy.

Marquette struggles with poor shooting, especially from beyond the arc.

N.C. State's balanced scoring and resilient defense key to victory.

Wolfpack aims to continue historic run against Duke in all-ACC showdown.

N.C. State's journey echoes past successes in the 1980s.

Marquette coach Shaka Smart acknowledges team's defensive shortcomings.

N.C. State's determination and team chemistry propel them to success.

Wolfpack inch closer to potentially replicating past championship triumphs.

Marquette, the No. 2 seed, struggled with poor shooting, going 4 of 31 from beyond the arc and shooting 33.3% overall. Despite Kam Jones' 20 points and Tyler Kolek's 17 points and 10 rebounds, the Golden Eagles couldn't overcome their offensive woes.

Shaka Smart, Marquette's coach, expressed disappointment over the loss, acknowledging the team's defensive shortcomings. N.C. State's balanced scoring and resilient defense proved crucial in securing the victory.

The Wolfpack's journey to the Elite Eight echoes their past successes in the 1980s, with notable appearances in 1985 and 1986. As they prepare to face Duke, N.C. State aims to continue their historic run and potentially secure a spot in the Final Four.

Despite initial doubts about their Cinderella status, N.C. State's determination and team chemistry have propelled them to the brink of a remarkable achievement. The Wolfpack's unwavering belief in their abilities and commitment to their roles have been instrumental in their recent success.

As the tournament progresses, N.C. State remains focused on making history and honoring their storied legacy. With each victory, they inch closer to potentially replicating the glory of their past championship triumphs.