N.C. State Celebrates Banner Unveiling, Opens Season with a Big Win
RALEIGH, N.C. — The atmosphere was electric at the Lenovo Center as N.C. State head coach Kevin Keatts, with his hands resting on his son KJ’s shoulders, looked up to the rafters. Together with the Wolfpack basketball team, staff, and enthusiastic fans, they witnessed the unveiling of two banners celebrating the program’s 2024 ACC Championship and impressive Final Four run. It had been 37 long years since such a momentous occasion took place, and the emotions were hard to contain.
“Man, it was beautiful,” Keatts expressed, clearly moved by the moment. He acknowledged the hard work behind the program’s resurgence and the supporters who have been longing for this day. “Those banners represent everything about NC State, represent everything about me,” he said. He emphasized the significance of the fans’ unwavering dedication, whether they were in the stands or watching at home.
Among the players, senior guard Michael O’Connell felt the pride swell within him as he watched the banners drop. “It was unbelievable,” O’Connell noted, explaining how the pre-game ceremony provided a spark for the team. With a 97-66 victory over USC Upstate in their season opener, the Wolfpack showed they meant business.
N.C. State’s scoring was led by new addition Marcus Hill, along with fourth-year guard Breon Pass, who both racked up 14 points. Pass reflected on the achievements and the dream he had shared four years ago with a former coach: “I remember when I told (former assistant coach James Johnson) that before I leave N.C. State, I’m gonna have two banners up. Look at it now.”
This new roster is not the same team that pulled off a Cinderella story last season, but they are ready to create their own memories. Hill, who was an All-MAC First Team selection last season, admitted the atmosphere fueled his drive. “Seeing the banners drop… I want to get to that,” he said. His dedication reflects the spirit of the entire squad, eager to push themselves to new heights.
As the season unfolds, the Wolfpack will look to replicate and surpass the success of their predecessors. The unveiling of the banners is a reminder of what they’re capable of achieving. With the determination and support from fans, there’s hope that this season will lead to even more remarkable accomplishments.
