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Bracketology Guru has us in Ames Iowa in March

As the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament approaches, ESPN’s Big Charlie wants all eyes on the Ames region if you are an NC State fan. Just for fun, let’s focus on bracketology guru’s matchups: NC State (6) vs. North Dakota State (11) and Iowa State (3) vs. Montana State (14). Well, not so much on the first round games. Let’s assume for argumentative sake that NC State blows out North Dakota State and Iowa State squeaks by Montana State in that first round. Who wins the NC State vs Iowa State match-up based on this moment of time?

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NC State is projected to win against Iowa State. Of Course! This is PackWBB.com site Afterall

Here’s the rationale, powered by NC State’s full-strength roster and strategic advantages:

1. Reinforced Rebounding Dominance:
   • NC State’s already impressive +8.9 rebounding margin and 46.1 rebounds per game is solidified by Tilda Trygger (7.8 RPG) on the court alongside Khamil Pierre (11.9 RPG). This duo creates a formidable presence in the paint, ensuring NC State dominates the glass. This translates directly into more second-chance opportunities for the Wolfpack and critically limits Iowa State’s powerful offense to fewer possessions, frustrating their rhythm.
2. Zamareya Jones: The Offensive Game-Changer:
   • The return (at this time she is “out”) of Zamareya Jones (13.9 PPG, 4.0 APG, 34.1% 3FG) would be a monumental boost. Her scoring punch, elite playmaking, and perimeter threat are essential to unlock NC State’s full offensive potential. With Jones initiating offense and hitting key shots, NC State gains the dynamic scorer and facilitator needed to match Iowa State’s high-octane attack, ensuring they don’t fall behind in a scoring duel.
3. Depth and Balanced Scoring:
   • With Jones and Trygger (she is probable vs Clemson) playing, NC State boasts a deep and balanced scoring attack. Along with Khamil Pierre (15.2 PPG) and Zoe Brooks (14.5 PPG), the Wolfpack will have four primary scoring options consistently threatening Iowa State’s defense. This balanced attack makes it incredibly difficult for Iowa State to key in on any single player, forcing them to spread their defensive efforts and potentially opening up opportunities for others.
4. Disruptive Defense Against Elite Offense:
   • While Iowa State’s Audi Crooks (28.7 PPG, 69.1% FG) is a national force, NC State’s collective defensive effort, particularly with the added size and athleticism from Trygger, can make her work harder. NC State’s physical play, strong rebounding, and ability to generate 6.7 steals per game can disrupt Iowa State’s flow and force them into slightly less efficient possessions. If NC State can shave even a few percentage points off Iowa State’s shooting efficiency, their rebounding advantage will amplify the impact.
5. Tournament Experience and Momentum:
   • NC State enters this hypothetical matchup with strong NCAA momentum, currently riding a 6-game winning streak and having navigated the 5th most difficult schedule in the land! Their experience in these tough games and Wes Moore’s history in the NCAA, guiding his teams to six Sweet 16 appearance in the past seven tournaments (2018, 19, 21, 22, 24, 25) not to mention two Elite 8s and one Final Four appearance.

Projected Score: NC State 78 – Iowa State 74

This projection is totally homered. But that’s ok. Go Pack!