Brian's Breakdown: How does NC State slow down Marquette's pick-and-roll machine?

Oct 18, 2024

During NC State's magic 2024 postseason run, the Wolfpack have won and inspired the imaginations of the fanbase and college basketball landscape with classic formula: a low-turnover offense and a defense that's bought in, rotating, and is anchored by the tireless Mo Diarra. Meanwhile, the offense has hummed thanks to the playmaking talents, primarily, of DJ Burns and DJ Horne — the two guys who can force opposing defenses to put two defenders on the ball — and the timely shot-making of Michael O'Connell and Jayden Taylor.

Within this formula, NC State has received standout performances from everyone in the rotation. Those game-breaking efforts have vacillated depending on who has it rolling that night, or what the matchup may dictate — for instance, Ben Middlebrooks having a career night while rolling into space against Virginia's Pack Line hedge.

The reward for this historical stretch of basketball is a ticket to the Sweet 16 and a matchup with Shaka Smart and Marquette, a talented and sophisticated basketball team.

Before the Wolfpack and Golden Eagles start up, here are a couple things to keep an eye on from a scouting standpoint.

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