NC State Defeats Tennessee in NCAA Tournament Opener

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NC State, the 7-seed, dominated 10-seed Tennessee from start to finish in their NCAA Tournament first-round matchup, leading for all but 8 seconds of the game and winning decisively 76-61. The Wolfpack shot 51% from the field, while limiting the Lady Vols to just 32.9% shooting. Sophomore guard Zam Jones led NC State with a career-high 30 points, while junior forward Khamil Pierre added a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds.

Why it matters

This win gives NC State momentum heading into the next round of the NCAA Tournament, as they look to make a deep run. The Wolfpack controlled the game from start to finish, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive intensity against a tough Tennessee squad.

The details

NC State shot 51% from the field, including 3-of-12 from 3-point range, while Tennessee struggled to a 32.9% shooting performance. Zam Jones led the Wolfpack with 30 points, Khamil Pierre recorded a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds, and Qadence Samuels chipped in 12 points. The game was never in doubt, as NC State led for all but 8 seconds.

• The game was played on Friday, March 21, 2026 at the University of Michigan's Crisler Center.