NC STATE WOLF PACK
Coach: Herb Sendek | Record: 21-9
Overview:
There's a misconception about NC State that
needs to cleared up heading into this tournament.
The prevailing thought about this team is that Herb
Sendek's Princeton-type offense doesn't provide much
scoring punch. But NC State is scoring at a healthy
75.9 ppg clip. You tend to score a lot of points
when you hit 46.8% of your shots, though. The Pack
spreads the offense out, with four players averaging
11 or more points, but no player averaging more than
13.5 (that's team scoring leader Cameron Bennerman's
average).
Potential Difference Maker: After a rash of
maladies basically stole his junior season away,
guard Tony Bethel's return has been an inspiration
for his teammates. He averages 9.6 ppg and 3.3 rpg
per game and is shooting 45% from 3-point range.
He'll provide any emotional push this team needs.
On Offense: This is a very timing-oriented
offense. They aren’t just a Princeton-style attack.
They actually run a little more then people realize.
They also do a nice job of getting mismatches in the
post.
On Defense: They are a very good position
defensive team. They work real hard to be there on
every catch.
Strength: The Princeton-style system. It’s
difficult to prepare for. It’s not something you can
easily simulate in practice. They are so good at
spreading you out and getting easy baskets.
Weakness: Injuries have created some depth
questions. And they also live and die by the three.
If the shots are not falling, it can get ugly in a
hurry.
Key to Success: Obviously they need to knock
down some perimeter shots. That opens up everything
for their offense. It’s also important for them to
establish Cedric Simmons down low. They also need a
good contribution from Bennerman.
How to Beat Them: Get out and guard the
three-point line. You also want to play the cutters
very physical.
