NC State’s Sweet 16 Exit: A Look at the Wolfpack’s Season and Future Prospects
As the 2025 women’s NCAA tournament heats up, the excitement is palpable with all four No. 1 seeds still in the running. However, the tournament took a dramatic turn on Friday when the first No. 2 seed was sent packing. The LSU Tigers delivered a stunning blow to the NC State Wolfpack in the Spokane 1 Regional, marking the end of the road for NC State this season.
With the women’s March Madness in full swing, the buzz isn’t just about the games. The coaching carousel is in motion, and the transfer portal is wide open, making it the perfect time to start speculating about next season. ESPN’s analysts are already diving deep into how the 1- and 2-seeds have seen their championship dreams dashed and what lies ahead for each team. They’re examining potential player departures, top incoming recruits, and possible transfers that could bolster rosters for the 2025-26 season.
No. 2 NC State Wolfpack
Record: 28-7 overall, 16-2 ACC (tied for first)
How they were eliminated: 80-73 loss to No. 3 seed LSU in the Sweet 16 in Spokane 1 Regional
Despite being the lower seed, the LSU Tigers came into the game with a sense of confidence, almost as if they were the favorites. They were in better health than they had been in recent weeks, with guard Flau’Jae Johnson back from injury. The Tigers had also previously defeated the Wolfpack in November, adding to their psychological edge. Both teams have a history of NCAA tournament success, with NC State reaching the Final Four last season and LSU making it to the Elite Eight, having won an NCAA title in 2023. However, it was LSU senior forward Aneesah Morrow who proved to be the game-changer, scoring 30 points and grabbing 19 rebounds. NC State, known for its guard-led strategy, struggled to contain Morrow, who led Division I in rebounding and double-doubles this season.
Expected departures:
Key contributors expected back next year: Despite losing significant talent at the guard position, NC State’s coach Wes Moore can find solace in the return of Zoe Brooks and Zamareya Jones, who should keep the perimeter play strong. Additionally, post players Tilda Trygger (6-foot-6) and Lorena Awou (6-5), both freshmen this season, will bring size and experience. Forward Maddie Cox, who will be a junior next season, had a standout performance with 8 points and 7 rebounds in the last game, which should boost her confidence for the upcoming season.
Top incoming recruit: G Destiny “Ky’She” Lunan (No. 60 per espnW)
Portal priorities: The Wolfpack will be looking to add experience at the guard position and enhance their post play. James led the team in points, Hayes in rebounds, and Rivers in assists, making their contributions invaluable. If there was a weak spot for NC State this season, it was in their post play, which was evident in their loss to LSU.
Can NC State keep up its Sweet 16 momentum? Under the guidance of Moore, the Wolfpack have consistently defied expectations in the ACC, becoming a formidable force in the postseason. They’ve reached the NCAA regional semifinals in six of the past seven seasons. However, next season will be a test of their resilience as they move forward without the standout guards who have been pivotal to their success.
Originally Written by: Michael Voepel
