Tourney Time: The Stage Is Set

NC State will take the court today to face the Tigers of LSU in what many have predicted to be a great match-up that pits two teams against one another that have contrasting strengths. LSU uses a pair of athletic multi-faceted big men to create havoc on its’ opponents inside the paint. Contrasting the Tigers, NC State prefers to utilize its’ trio of guards to plague their challengers. In order for the Pack to advance to the round of 32 it will be imperative that Cat Barber, Trevor Lacey, and Ralston Turner show up with their proverbial “A Games”.  Personally I think it will be more important that these three set the tone on the defensive end as this will be what determines if the Wolfpack advances.

One thing that has been consistent for the Pack this season is their ability to be inconsistent. I wish I knew the source of the inconsistency. How can a team look like a top five team nationally at times and then look like a bottom dweller at other times? Even in the same game we have seen it. But with this inconsistency comes a certain element of hope that the light switch will suddenly click! You cannot deny the fact that this team has overachieved this season. A season ago we squeaked into the field of 68. We beat an Xavier team in the first four only to succumb to St. Louis in the next round. Heading into this season there were a ton of unknowns. Coach Gottfried had to replace arguably the best scorer to come through Raleigh since David Thompson in TJ Warren who also captured ACC POY. Gottfried then had to find a way to incorporate Trevor Lacey, and the incoming freshmen in order for this season to be relevant.

I commend Coach Gottfried and his staff for the job they have done. This season he has beaten Coach K, Roy Williams, Jim Boehiem, and Rick Pitino. How many coaches can claim this feat in a single season? With all that being said tomorrow night’s contest versus the LSU Tigers is a critical game that our guys must take advantage of. Our players and program are on the cusp of something great but they must start to turn potential into results. I honestly believe that great results are right around the corner. I hope that the Pack proves me right by playing with the focus and energy to beat LSU. It will take a total team effort and intelligence to win.

At this time of the year the Pack is only guaranteed 40 more minutes…it is completely up to them if they will be awarded another 40 minutes come tomorrow night!

Tip-Off is slated for 9:20PM and can be seen on TBS.