As NC State prepares to travel to Winston-Salem to take on the Wake Forest Demon Deacons this Thursday, the stakes are high for the Pack. While the Wolfpack currently hold a 12-5 overall record (5-1 ACC), Wake Forest will host the Pack with a respectable 12-6 overall record (2-4 ACC). With the game being in Joel Coliseum, the Pack cannot afford to take the Deacs lightly.
Let’s break down Wake Forest’s statistical leaders and what NC State can expect from the Demon Deacons.
Wake Forest’s Team Snapshot (as of Jan. 11, 2026):
- Overall Record: 12-6 (2-4 ACC)
- Scoring Offense: 65.4 points per game (Opponents: 56.8 PPG)
- Field Goal Percentage: 44.5%
- Three-Point Percentage: 30.7%
- Rebounding: 37.2 rebounds per game (Opponents: 36.4 RPG)
- Assists: 17.6 assists per game
Wake Forest shows a balanced attack, good shooting efficiency, and a team that moves the ball well. Their rebounding margin is positive, suggesting they can hold their own on the glass.
Key Demon Deacons to Watch for NC State:
1. Grace Oliver (#13) – Scoring Threat & Active Defender: Oliver leads the Deacons in scoring with 13.4 points per game and is incredibly efficient, shooting 60.9% from the field. She’s also their leading thief with 24 total steals (1.3 SPG).
- NC State’s Challenge: Oliver’s ability to score efficiently and disrupt defensively makes her a dual threat. The Wolfpack will need to limit her touches, especially inside, and protect the ball against her quick hands.
2. Mary Carter (#14) – Perimeter Firepower: Carter is the team’s second-leading scorer, averaging 11.5 points per game, and is their most prolific three-point shooter, having made 44 three-pointers this season. She’s also a high-minute player, averaging 32.1 minutes per game.
- NC State’s Challenge: NC State’s perimeter defense will be tested. Limiting Carter’s looks from beyond the arc will be paramount to slowing down Wake Forest’s offense.
3. Milan Brown (#00) – Rebounding & Facilitator: Brown is a force on the boards, leading Wake Forest with 6.2 rebounds per game. She’s also a primary playmaker, tied for the team lead with 47 assists (2.6 APG).
- NC State’s Challenge: Controlling the paint and limiting second-chance opportunities will require the Wolfpack’s bigs to box out Brown effectively. Disrupting her facilitating will also be key to breaking down Wake Forest’s offensive flow.
4. Raven Preston (#01) – Versatile Contributor: Preston contributes on both ends, averaging 8.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game.
- NC State’s Challenge: She’s a versatile forward who can score and rebound. The Wolfpack will need to be aware of her presence in multiple facets of the game.
5. Aurora Sørbye (#02) – Efficient Three-Point Shooter: While not taking a high volume of shots, Sørbye is very efficient from deep, hitting 37.0% of her three-pointers.
- NC State’s Challenge: The Wolfpack cannot afford to leave Sørbye open on the perimeter, as she has proven capable of knocking down crucial shots.
Matchup Considerations for NC State:
- Rebounding Battle: Wake Forest is solid on the glass, but NC State boasts a superior team rebounding average (45.9 RPG). Establishing dominance in this area will be crucial for the Wolfpack to limit Wake Forest’s possessions and create their own second-chance points.
- Pace of Play: NC State generally plays at a higher tempo, averaging 76.4 points per game compared to Wake Forest’s 65.4. The Wolfpack should look to push the pace, leverage their depth, and transition opportunities to wear down the Deacons.
- Three-Point Defense: Wake Forest has multiple players who can hit from outside. NC State’s strong defensive numbers against the three-point shot (opponents shooting .263) will need to be on full display to contest Carter, Sørbye, and others.
- Ball Security: Wake Forest averages 15.5 turnovers per game with a negative turnover margin. The Wolfpack, who average 6.2 steals per game, can capitalize on these opportunities to generate fast-break points.
Thursday’s game against Wake Forest will be another important ACC test for the NC State Wolfpack. By focusing on limiting the impact of Oliver, Carter, and Brown, controlling the boards, and playing their up-tempo brand of basketball, the Pack will be well-positioned to take a valued ACC road win.
Photo Courtesy of @WakeWBB
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