NC State vs. Louisville: 7 quick takeways

Defensive Lapses: NC State struggled on defense especially when they drove the ball, allowing Louisville to shoot 44%.
Turnover Issues: The Wolfpack committed 19 turnovers compared to Louisville’s 13, leading to 24 points off turnovers for the Cardinals. This critical stat shifted momentum and gave Louisville extra scoring opportunities.
Rebounding Disadvantage: Louisville’s physicality and quickness were evident on the boards, as they out-rebounded NC State 44-35. This rebounding edge allowed the Cardinals to secure 21 offensive rebounds, resulting in numerous second-chance points.
3 Point Offense Efficiency for the Pack: NC State’s offensive was highlighted by their 3-point shooting, finishing just 44% from beyond the arc (8 of 18), while Louisville hit 26% of their 3-pointers (5 of 19).
Free-Throw Line: The Wolfpack shot only 75% (18 of 24) from the free-throw line, but missed crucial FTs down the stretch, which allowed the Cardinals to maintain their lead when it mattered most.
Missed Late Opportunity: In a crucial moment, with NC State up by 2 points and 10 seconds left in the game, Zoe Brooks had a significant chance to put the game away with a jump shot in the paint but missed. This missed opportunity was pivotal, as it allowed Louisville to tie the game and eventually secure the victory in overtime.
Turning Point: With the Pack up 50-39 with 1:04 left in the 3rd , Imari Berry went off with an explosive 8-0 run of her own at the end of the third quarter was a turning point in the game. This surge grabbed Louisville’s momentum going into the final quarter.
Bonus Takeaway: Louisville had a much deeper bench than NC State, scoring 57 points to NC State’s 4.