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Revisiting NC State’s Historic NCAA Tournament Run
In 1983, the North Carolina State men’s basketball team achieved an improbable feat by winning the NCAA tournament championship. Fast forward to the present day, and the current crop of Wolfpack players are channeling that same spirit and determination as they make their own mark in the tournament.
A Legacy Remembered
While none of this year’s NC State players were alive to witness the glory of the 1983 team, they hold a deep respect for the program’s rich history. Guard Casey Morsell acknowledges the significance of those who paved the way, stating, “We pay homage to that team and that group all throughout the year.”
Coach Kevin Keatts echoes this sentiment, referring to the past champions as “big brothers, uncles, and maybe even some granddads” to the current players. The legacy of NC State’s basketball success is ingrained in the fabric of the program, serving as a constant source of inspiration and motivation.
Embracing the Underdog Mentality
Similar to the 1983 team, this year’s Wolfpack squad entered the tournament as an 11-seed, defying expectations with each hard-fought victory. Their recent triumph over second-seeded Marquette demonstrated their resilience and potential to go the distance.
Having overcome significant obstacles, including a five-game winning streak to secure a spot in the NCAA tournament, NC State is now on the brink of reaching the Final Four for the first time in over four decades. The team’s tenacity and unwavering belief in themselves have propelled them to this stage of the competition.
Looking Ahead
As the Wolfpack prepare to face off against Duke in the Elite Eight, the players remain undaunted by the challenges ahead. Center DJ Burns exemplifies their mindset, questioning, “Why not us?” Despite being underestimated by many, NC State is determined to prove their detractors wrong and continue their remarkable journey in the tournament.
With a focus on stifling defense and dominant rebounding, the Wolfpack have the potential to make history once again. As they draw inspiration from the past and forge their own path to greatness, the spirit of NC State basketball lives on in the hearts of every player and fan alike.
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