NC State Hosts Virginia Tech in ACC Basketball Matchup

Wolfpack look to build on recent road win against SMU as Hokies aim for signature ACC victory

Feb. 7, 2026 at 8:15am

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NC State men's basketball team returns home to take on Virginia Tech in an ACC conference matchup. The Wolfpack are coming off a big road win against SMU, while the Hokies are looking to bounce back after a loss to Duke earlier this week. Both teams are jockeying for position in the NCAA Tournament picture.

Why it matters

This ACC clash between NC State and Virginia Tech has major implications for both teams' postseason aspirations. The Wolfpack are currently 17-6 overall and 8-2 in conference play, putting them in good position for an NCAA Tournament bid. However, the Hokies are on the bubble and need a signature road win to bolster their resume. The outcome of this game could have a significant impact on the ACC standings and each team's NCAA Tournament seeding.

The details

NC State is led by a talented backcourt featuring point guard Cam Hayes and shooting guard Terquavion Smith. The Wolfpack will look to push the pace and get out in transition against a Virginia Tech team that has struggled defensively at times this season. On the other side, the Hokies are paced by forward Justyn Mutts and guard Hunter Cattoor, who will need to have big games to pull off the upset on the road.

  • The game tips off at 12:00 PM EST on Saturday, February 7th.
  • NC State is coming off a road win against SMU earlier this week.

The players

Cam Hayes

NC State's starting point guard and a key leader of the Wolfpack's backcourt.

Terquavion Smith

NC State's starting shooting guard and one of the top scorers in the ACC this season.

Justyn Mutts

Virginia Tech's starting forward and one of the team's top offensive threats.

Hunter Cattoor

Virginia Tech's starting guard and a sharpshooter who can stretch the defense.

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What they’re saying

“We know Virginia Tech is a tough team and they're fighting for their NCAA Tournament lives. We're going to have to bring our 'A' game if we want to protect our home court.”

— Cam Hayes, NC State Point Guard (247Sports)

“This is a huge opportunity for us to get a quality road win in the ACC. We've been close in some of these big games, but now it's time to get over the hump.”

— Justyn Mutts, Virginia Tech Forward (247Sports)

What’s next

The winner of this game will take a big step towards securing an NCAA Tournament bid, while the loser will have more work to do in the final weeks of the regular season.

The takeaway

This ACC clash between NC State and Virginia Tech features two teams fighting for their postseason lives. The Wolfpack are looking to build on their recent success, while the Hokies are desperate for a signature road win. Whichever team can impose their style of play and get key contributions from their star players will likely come out on top in this crucial conference matchup.