Cat Barber took control of this game from the onset as he cruised past whatever defender Miami threw his way, for the lions share of the time it was Angel Rodriguez. I must admit that the tiny dynamo played steady hard nose defense, much to the disdain of the NC State faithful, but Barber kept a cool head and a hot hand as he scored 30 points on 18 shots. It wasn’t just Barber who was fantastic, but Malik Abu had another solid game as he scored 19 points and added 7 rebounds. It should be of note that Abu was a perfect 5-5 from the free throw line, and it was free throws that put NC State over the top. For the game State was 26-31 good enough for 83 percent, and the loudest moment of the game came, when BeeJay Anya sank both free throws in the second half…always a good omen for the Wolfpack!

NC State played a great game today as they defended and executed. They took good shots and played without fouling as they were only whistled for 14 on the day. On top of that they out rebounded a physical Hurricanes team 41-23, and this tone was set in the beginning as NC State fought for three consecutive offensive rebounds after winning the tip. Gottfried was disappointed in the energy level in the first half of the GT game, and today it was apparent that his team responded admirably. The one thing that this group can control every night is their effort level, and if they can play with that energy for 40 minutes each game, as they did today, then they will have some good opportunities at winning.

I know I am bias toward Mark Gottfried as I was a manager with him and his staff, but today is a testament of why he received an extension from Debbie Yow. I know many may argue that they want more; however, Gottfried and company have kept this team together, kept them hungry, and they are improving. I am not going to get too high at all from today’s game, it is what it is, their second ACC win. That sentiment is exactly how the guys in the locker room viewed today and it most certainly is how Coach Gottfried viewed it. Every game is important, but some games can help a team out in more ways than just another notch in the win column. Beating a good Miami team could be a spring board for the rest of the season.

Tip-Ins 

NC State will have a short turn around as they will board a plane tomorrow to face FSU on Monday at 9PM. Not only was Cat sensational on offense but he drew three charges in the second half, this is awesome to see as Barber is giving the Pack everything he has each game. In the second half Caleb Martin found his stroke as he finished with 4 three pointers and 13 points. If he can get going again it would be a great asset for NC State to have coming off the bench.