In an electrifying Sweet 16 matchup, the LSU Tigers secured their place in the Elite Eight with a hard-fought 80-73 win over the NC State Wolfpack. The contest, played at a neutral-site arena packed with passionate fans, delivered all the drama, intensity, and high-level basketball expected at this stage of the NCAA Tournament. LSU’s balanced offensive attack, defensive tenacity, and clutch performances in the final minutes propelled them to victory against a resilient NC State squad that fought until the very end.
First-Half Struggles and Momentum Swings
The game started with both teams struggling to find an offensive rhythm. NC State, coming off an impressive tournament run, attempted to establish their presence in the paint early, with big man DJ Burns Jr. using his size and skill to challenge LSU’s interior defense. On the other end, the Tigers leaned on their perimeter play, with guard Jordan Wright and forward Jalen Cook finding openings to attack the basket.
LSU’s shooting woes in the early minutes allowed NC State to take control, as the Wolfpack jumped out to an early 10-4 lead. However, the Tigers’ defense tightened up, forcing several turnovers that ignited transition opportunities. A thunderous dunk by Tyrell Ward off a steal provided a spark, shifting the momentum in LSU’s favor.
By the midpoint of the first half, LSU had settled into a rhythm offensively. Will Baker and Jalen Reed contributed key buckets, countering NC State’s inside presence with mid-range jumpers and quick ball movement. Both teams traded blows as the first half progressed, with neither able to establish a double-digit lead. At halftime, LSU held a narrow 38-36 advantage, setting up an intense second-half battle.
Second-Half Surge by LSU
Coming out of the locker room, LSU made crucial adjustments on both ends of the floor. Defensively, they focused on limiting Burns’ touches in the post, sending double teams to force him into difficult decisions. Meanwhile, on offense, the Tigers relied on their three-point shooting to stretch NC State’s defense.
Jalen Cook led the charge in the second half, scoring 12 of his 18 points in a pivotal stretch that saw LSU extend their lead to eight points. Cook’s ability to create shots off the dribble and knock down contested jumpers kept NC State’s defenders on their heels.
NC State, unwilling to go down without a fight, responded with a furious rally. Casey Morsell connected on back-to-back three-pointers, and Burns powered his way to an and-one finish, cutting LSU’s lead to just two points with under eight minutes to play. The game hung in the balance, and both teams braced for a high-stakes finish.
Clutch Moments Define the Finish
With five minutes left, LSU clung to a 68-65 lead, and the tension in the arena was palpable. It was in this moment that senior guard Jordan Wright stepped up, delivering one of the defining performances of the game. Wright hit a crucial three-pointer to give LSU breathing room and followed it up with a strong drive to the rim, drawing a foul and converting at the line.
On the defensive end, LSU’s pressure forced NC State into difficult shots. Shawn Phillips Jr. came up with a massive block on a driving attempt by NC State’s DJ Horne, preserving LSU’s slim lead. The Wolfpack continued to battle, but timely free throws by Cook and Wright in the final minute sealed the victory for LSU.
Key Takeaways from LSU’s Victory
Balanced Offensive Attack
LSU showcased remarkable offensive balance, with five players scoring in double figures. Cook (18 points), Wright (16 points), Baker (12 points), Ward (11 points), and Reed (10 points) provided a diverse scoring effort that made it difficult for NC State to key in on a single threat. The Tigers’ ability to knock down perimeter shots while also attacking the rim kept the Wolfpack defense on its heels.
Defensive Adjustments Paid Off
Head coach Matt McMahon and his staff deserve credit for their second-half defensive adjustments. Recognizing NC State’s reliance on DJ Burns in the post, LSU’s defensive strategy of doubling him and forcing the ball out of his hands disrupted the Wolfpack’s offensive flow. Additionally, LSU’s perimeter defense stepped up late, contesting NC State’s outside shots and forcing them into difficult possessions down the stretch.
Poise Under Pressure
One of the most impressive aspects of LSU’s performance was their composure in high-pressure moments. With the game on the line, the Tigers made smart decisions, limited turnovers, and converted at the free-throw line when it mattered most. Wright’s leadership, in particular, was instrumental in LSU closing out the win.
What’s Next for LSU?
With this victory, LSU advances to the Elite Eight, where they will face another formidable opponent with a trip to the Final Four on the line. The Tigers have demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and the ability to win close games—qualities that will be crucial as they continue their tournament journey. If LSU can replicate their balanced scoring and defensive intensity, they have a legitimate chance to make a deep run and potentially reach the Final Four for the first time since 2006.
For NC State, the loss ends an inspiring tournament run, but the Wolfpack can hold their heads high after pushing LSU to the limit. With a strong core of players and an experienced coaching staff, NC State will be a team to watch in future seasons.
As the NCAA Tournament progresses, LSU’s momentum is building at the perfect time. With an Elite Eight berth secured, the Tigers are just one win away from basketball’s grandest stage—the Final Four. Fans will eagerly anticipate their next matchup, hoping their team can continue this remarkable run toward championship glory.