30 Facts About NC State Basketball

The Early Years

NC State Basketball has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about the team's beginnings.

1. First Game: NC State played its first basketball game in 1911. They faced off against Wake Forest and won 33-6.
2. Original Name: The team was initially known as the "Red Terrors" before adopting the "Wolfpack" nickname in 1921.
3. First Coach: The first head coach was Frank Thompson, who also coached the football team.
4. Early Success: By 1923, the team had already won its first Southern Conference Championship.

The Golden Era

The 1940s and 1950s were a golden era for NC State Basketball, marked by significant achievements and legendary players.

5. Everett Case: Coach Everett Case, hired in 1946, revolutionized NC State Basketball. He introduced modern coaching techniques and built a winning culture.
6. First ACC Title: Under Case, NC State won the first-ever ACC Tournament in 1954.
7. Back-to-Back Titles: The team won back-to-back ACC Championships in 1955 and 1956.
8. Reynolds Coliseum: Reynolds Coliseum, opened in 1949, became the home court and a fortress for the Wolfpack.

Legendary Players

NC State has produced some of the most iconic players in college basketball history. Here are a few who left an indelible mark.

9. David Thompson: Known as "Skywalker," David Thompson led NC State to its first NCAA Championship in 1974.
10. Tommy Burleson: Standing at 7'4", Burleson was a dominant force in the paint and a key player in the 1974 championship team.
11. Rodney Monroe: Monroe, known for his scoring prowess, is one of the top scorers in NC State history.
12. Julius Hodge: Hodge was the ACC Player of the Year in 2004 and led the team to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances.

Championship Moments

NC State Basketball has had its share of unforgettable championship moments that have gone down in history.

13. 1974 NCAA Championship: The 1974 team, led by David Thompson, defeated Marquette to win the NCAA title.
14. 1983 NCAA Championship: Coached by Jim Valvano, the 1983 team pulled off one of the biggest upsets in NCAA history by defeating Houston in the finals.
15. "Cardiac Pack": The 1983 team earned the nickname "Cardiac Pack" for their numerous close games and last-second victories.
16. Lorenzo Charles: Charles' game-winning dunk in the 1983 championship game remains one of the most iconic moments in NCAA history.

Coaching Legends

Several legendary coaches have graced the sidelines for NC State, each contributing to the program's storied history.

17. Everett Case: Known as the "Father of ACC Basketball," Case's impact on the program and the conference is immeasurable.
18. Norm Sloan: Sloan coached the team to its first NCAA Championship in 1974.
19. Jim Valvano: Valvano's charismatic personality and coaching acumen led the team to the 1983 NCAA title.
20. Herb Sendek: Sendek led the team to five consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances from 2002 to 2006.

Modern Era

The modern era of NC State Basketball has seen its ups and downs but continues to build on its rich legacy.

21. Mark Gottfried: Gottfried led the team to four NCAA Tournament appearances, including two Sweet 16 runs.
22. Kevin Keatts: Hired in 2017, Keatts has brought a new energy to the program and aims to return NC State to national prominence.
23. Recent Success: The team reached the NCAA Tournament in 2018 and 2021 under Keatts' leadership.
24. NBA Talent: Recent players like Dennis Smith Jr. and T.J. Warren have gone on to successful NBA careers.

Fan Culture

NC State fans are some of the most passionate in college basketball, creating an electric atmosphere at games.

25. The Red Terror: The student section, known as "The Red Terror," is famous for its loud and enthusiastic support.
26. Wolfpack Club: The Wolfpack Club, founded in 1936, supports the athletic program through fundraising and fan engagement.
27. Rivalries: Intense rivalries with UNC and Duke add extra excitement to the season.
28. Traditions: Traditions like the "Alma Mater" and "Fight Song" are integral parts of the game-day experience.

Records and Achievements

NC State Basketball boasts numerous records and achievements that highlight its storied history.

29. ACC Titles: The team has won 10 ACC Tournament Championships.
30. NCAA Appearances: NC State has made 27 NCAA Tournament appearances, showcasing its consistent excellence over the years.

Final Whistle on NC State Basketball Facts

NC State Basketball has a rich history filled with triumphs, challenges, and memorable moments. From their NCAA championships to producing NBA stars, the Wolfpack has left an indelible mark on college basketball. The team's dedication and spirit have inspired countless fans and athletes alike. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious, these facts highlight the essence of what makes NC State Basketball special. Keep these nuggets in mind next time you catch a game or chat with fellow fans. The legacy of NC State Basketball is not just about wins and losses; it's about the community, the passion, and the enduring spirit of the Wolfpack. Here's to many more seasons of excitement and achievement. Go Pack!