NC State’s big statement
NC State beat Tennessee 76–61 to advance — Zamareya Jones poured in 30 points on just 15 shots and made 10 free throws, and the Wolfpack shot 51% to Tennessee’s 33%. That performance floors bracket analysts and vaults Jones into the early tournament spotlight. (ncaa.com)
Zamareya Jones poured in 15 of her career-high 30 points before halftime, a burst that opened a double-digit lead for NC State. (usnews.com) NC State’s official box score credits Jones with five steals on the night, a turnover-forcing element that complemented the Wolfpack’s balanced scoring. (gopack.com) The Wolfpack advance to face No. 2 seed Michigan on the Wolverines’ home court in the Round of 32 on Sunday, March 22, 2026. (espn.com) All‑ACC guard Zoe Brooks exited with a right‑leg injury in the first quarter and did not return, leaving NC State to adjust without one of its primary ballhandlers. (usnews.com) The win moved NC State to 21–10 on the season and marked the program’s 14th win in Round‑of‑64 play (now 14‑8 overall), while NC State’s release noted the team has won eight of its last nine opening-round games. (gopack.com) The game was played at Michigan’s Crisler Center with an announced attendance of 8,491, and NC State received supporting scoring from Khamil Pierre (16 points) and Qadence Samuels (12 points) in the win. (espn.com)
