NC State downs Miami to end losing streak

RALEIGH, N.C. – DJ Horne scored 24 points to help the North Carolina State Wolfpack snap a three-game losing streak in a 74-68 victory versus Miami Tuesday night at the PNC Arena. 

The Pack started off optimistic offensively. DJ Horne started off promising, scoring the first eight of 10 points. 

DJ Horne led the way for the Wolfpack with a game-high 24 points, with the NC State’s offensive effort being aided by a team-best five assists from Michael O’Connell.

Jayden Taylor led the way for NC State on the boards, matching his career best with seven rebounds and setting a career-high with three blocks.

Taylor additionally finished in double figures in scoring with 12, while Casey Morsell contributed 17 points as well highlighted by a 3-for-4 performance from beyond the arc.

Miami came out having foul trouble while going on a scoring drought of four minutes. 

Miami guard Paul Djobet stood out, recording three offensive bounds in the first half to assist in taking the lead. 

NC State played aggressively on defense going into halftime as both sides went back-and-forth with the lead.  

NC State started the second half much like the first, moving the ball well. Miami struggled on both sides of the ball with making shots and taming the Pack offense. 

Miami managed to tie the game midway through the second half after a 7-2 run.  

Fouls were part to blame for the Hurricanes performance. The Hurricanes made poor decisions that hindered the chance of a comeback. The Pack held on to seal the win, 74-68. 

The Hurricanes were led by Nijel Pack who finished with 23 points and Norcahd Omier added 18 points and a game-high 14 rebounds. 

Despite recording 20 offensive rebounds, NC State forced Miami outside the paint, making them struggle. NC State made better shot selection in Tuesday’s game compared to the previous three games. 

NC State came out with an upbeat tempo. The Pack kept turnovers limited throughout the game and made 36% (27) of three-pointers. 

Moving forward, NC State must be consistent on both sides of the ball, play aggressively, and make shots all around. 

NC State returns to PNC Arena on Saturday, Feb. 3, for the second leg of its three-game homestand. The Pack will host Georgia Tech in what will be the only meeting of the regular season between the ACC foes. Tipoff is slated for 5:30 p.m. with the game broadcast on The CW.