Wolfpack fans, it’s time to gear up for a crucial ACC clash as our NC State women’s basketball team (13-6, 6-2 ACC) heads to Charlottesville to take on the Virginia Cavaliers (14-5, 6-2 ACC). Both squads are tied for third in the league standings, so this one’s got major implications for the conference race. The game was bumped up a day due to that incoming winter storm – smart call by the ACC to keep everyone safe.When and Where:
Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. ET
John Paul Jones Arena, Charlottesville, VA
How to Watch/Listen:
- Stream: ACC Network Extra (ACCNX) via the ESPN app or WatchESPN.com
- Radio: Tune in on the Varsity Network app or local affiliates
- Live Stats
Quick Matchup Breakdown
The Pack is coming off a tough 88-80 overtime loss to No. 9/10 Louisville, where we blew a late lead but showed grit with standout performances from Khamil Pierre (26 points, 6 rebounds), Zamareya Jones (20 points, 6 assists), and Zoe Brooks (19 points, 5 assists).
Pierre’s been a beast all season, averaging 16.4 PPG and 11.7 RPG (sixth nationally in rebounds, eighth in double-doubles with 11), leading the ACC in defensive boards at 8.2.
NC State tops the ACC in rebounding (45.1 per game) and has faced the toughest schedule in the country based on opponent NET rankings.
On the flip side, Virginia’s riding high after an 84-46 blowout of Pitt, showcasing their elite defense – they lead the nation in blocks (8.1 per game) and rank top-10 in assists (19.2).
Kymora Johnson is their engine (18.0 PPG, 6.3 APG, ACC leader in assists), with Tabitha Amanze anchoring the paint (32 blocks).
The Cavs boast a +13 rebound margin (tops in the ACC) and allow just 58.6 PPG.
Historically, NC State holds a 44-41 edge in the series and has won the last three meetings, including a 73-68 thriller last season where Brooks and Tilda Trygger shone.
But Virginia’s tough at home (21-17 all-time vs. the Pack in Charlottesville) and will look to snap that streak.
Expect a battle on the boards – the Pack’s rebounding prowess vs. UVA’s shot-blocking could decide it. NC State’s offense (77.5 PPG) might test Virginia’s stingy D, but turnovers (UVA forced 19 in last year’s loss) will be key.
This one’s shaping up as a defensive slugfest with playoff vibes. Coach Moore’s crew needs to rebound from the Louisville heartbreaker and protect the ball to steal a road W.
PackWBB.com Prediction: Virginia 72, NC State 68
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