NC State Looks Back on Memorable 2025-26 Season

From Quadir Copeland's historic double-double to Paul McNeil's record-breaking performance, the Wolfpack had some standout moments despite a tumultuous end to the season.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:00am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

While NC State's men's basketball team is ushering in a new era under head coach Justin Gainey, the 2025-26 season had several memorable moments, including Quadir Copeland's impressive double-double, Paul McNeil's record-breaking shooting performance, and Ven-Allen Lubin's 'bedazzled belt' moment against UNC. The team also secured a key road win over ranked Clemson in overtime.

Why it matters

Despite the disappointing end to the Will Wade era, which included a surprise trip to the First Four and Wade's resignation, the 2025-26 season provided Wolfpack fans with several highlights to look back on fondly as the program transitions to new leadership under Gainey.

The details

Quadir Copeland, a senior guard, recorded a unique double-double with 16 assists and 10 rebounds in NC State's 84-83 road win over SMU on Feb. 3, leaving coach Will Wade speechless. Sophomore guard Paul McNeil had a monster game on Dec. 17, setting a new school record with 11 three-pointers and scoring 47 points in a win over Texas Southern at historic Reynolds Coliseum. Ven-Allen Lubin, a transfer from UNC, came into the postgame press conference after a win over the Tar Heels wearing a 'bedazzled belt', throwing shade at UNC freshman Caleb Wilson. The Wolfpack also secured a key Quadrant 1 road win over No. 18 Clemson in overtime on Jan. 20.

  • On Feb. 3, Quadir Copeland recorded a 16-assist, 10-rebound double-double in NC State's 84-83 win over SMU.
  • On Dec. 17, Paul McNeil set a new school record with 11 three-pointers and scored 47 points in a win over Texas Southern.
  • On Feb. 17, Ven-Allen Lubin wore a 'bedazzled belt' to the postgame press conference after NC State's win over UNC.
  • On Jan. 20, NC State defeated No. 18 Clemson 80-76 in overtime for their first Quadrant 1 win of the season.

The players

Quadir Copeland

A senior guard for NC State who recorded a unique double-double with 16 assists and 10 rebounds in a win over SMU.

Paul McNeil

A sophomore guard for NC State who set a new school record with 11 three-pointers and scored 47 points in a win over Texas Southern.

Ven-Allen Lubin

A transfer forward from UNC who joined NC State and wore a 'bedazzled belt' to the postgame press conference after a win over his former team.

Darrion Williams

An NC State player who made key plays down the stretch to help the Wolfpack defeat No. 18 Clemson in overtime.

Justin Gainey

The new head coach hired by NC State, who will be ushering in a new era for the program.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I don't want to be like hyperbole, but I don't think I've ever had 16 assists, no turnovers, double-double with rebounds and assists.”

— Will Wade, NC State Head Coach

“Ven-Allen Lubin sporting a belt around his neck in the postgame press conference.”

— Tucker Sennett, Reporter

What’s next

NC State will look to build on the positive moments from the 2025-26 season as they transition to the Justin Gainey era. Gainey, who was previously an associate coach at Tennessee, will aim to lead the Wolfpack back to the NCAA Tournament and compete for an ACC championship.

The takeaway

Despite the disappointing end to the Will Wade era, the 2025-26 NC State men's basketball season provided fans with several memorable highlights, from individual player performances to key wins over ranked opponents. As the program moves forward under new leadership, these moments will serve as a foundation for the Wolfpack to build upon in the years to come.