What’s Next for NC State? Forecasting Next Season for Women’s March Madness Top Seeds
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 a significant moment in this year’s March Madness.
While the tournament continues to unfold, the buzz around the coaching carousel and the ever-active transfer portal is already setting the stage for next season. It’s never too early to start speculating about what lies ahead for these teams. ESPN’s analysts are on the case, ready to dissect how the 1- and 2-seeds’ dreams were dashed and what the future holds for each squad. Who will be leaving? Who are the top recruits coming in? And which transfers might just be the perfect fit 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
The Tigers, despite being the lower seed, came into the game with a sense of confidence. They were healthier than they had been in recent weeks, thanks to the return of guard Flau’Jae Johnson from injury. LSU had already bested the Wolfpack earlier in the season, back in November. Both teams have a rich history of NCAA tournament success, with NC State reaching the Final Four last season and LSU making it to the Elite Eight, not to mention their NCAA title win in 2023. But on Friday, it was LSU senior forward Aneesah Morrow who stole the show with a jaw-dropping 30 points and 19 rebounds. NC State, known for their guard-led strategy, simply couldn’t contain Morrow, who led Division I in rebounding and double-doubles this season.
Expected departures:
Key contributors expected back next year: Despite losing key players 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. In the post, 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 on Friday with 8 points and 7 rebounds, setting the stage for a confidence-boosting season ahead.
Top incoming recruit: G Destiny “Ky’She” Lunan (No. 60 per espnW)
Portal priorities: The focus will be on adding experience at guard and bolstering post play. James led the team in points, Hayes in rebounds, and Rivers in assists. This trio has been instrumental in NC State’s success, both in terms of production and leadership. If there was a weak spot for the Wolfpack this season, it was in the post, which was evident in their loss on Friday.
Can NC State keep up its Sweet 16 momentum? Under Moore’s leadership, 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 as they move forward without the standout guards who have been pivotal to their program’s success.
Originally Written by: Michael Voepel
