Takeaways from N.C. State’s Win Against Little Rock

Raleigh N.C. – The NC State Wolfpack defeated the Arkansas Little Rock Trojans 74-58 last Saturday, Nov. 23.

Wolfpack senior guard C.J. Bryce led the way with 18 points, six rebounds, two assists and two steals. The only Wolfpack player besides Bryce that scored in double-figures was Markell Johnson who finished with 12 points to go along with three rebounds, three assists and a steal.

Going forward, the Wolfpack must show improvement in the following areas in order to find success against stiffer competition. First, they have to stay out of foul trouble, especially since they lack depth.

 “We have to play with different pieces,” said N.C. State head coach Kevin Keatts. “…We’re only playing eight guys.” 

Although the Wolfpack have size in the frontcourt – with 6-foot, 10-inch junior D.J. Funderburk and 6-foot, 11-inch redshirt freshman Manny Bates – they struggle on the glass.

 “We need to do a better job rebounding defensively,” Keatts said, “We don’t get as many breaks because we’re not doing a good job at blocking back.”

On a positive note, Keatts believes that his team excels in transition offense, sharing the ball and team defense.

“We’re getting better each step of the way,” Keatts said, “Each game, we’ve gotten better in different areas.” 

What’s Next

N.C State (5-1, ACC 0-1) travels to Brooklyn to play in the Barclays Center Classic against Memphis on Thursday, Nov. 28, 2019, at 4:00 p.m. The game will air on ESPN2.