ANN ARBOR, MI – Behind a career-high 30-point performance from freshman sensation Zamareya Jones, the NC State Wolfpack (21-10) notched a statement 76–61 victory over the Tennessee Lady Vols (16-14) at the Crisler Center on Friday night.
The Jones Show
From the opening tip, Zamareya Jones was the best player on the floor. The guard was relentless, attacking the rim and drawing fouls to finish 9-of-15 from the field and 10-of-13 from the charity stripe. Beyond her scoring, Jones spearheaded a defensive effort that flustered Tennessee all night, recording a game-high 6 steals and chipping in 5 assists.
Dominance in the Paint
While Jones handled the perimeter, Khamil Pierre anchored the interior. Pierre posted a commanding double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds, helping the Wolfpack outscore the Lady Vols 40–24 in the paint. NC State’s efficiency was the story of the game; the Wolfpack shot a blistering 51% from the floor, while their defensive pressure held Tennessee to just 32.9%.
Weathering the Storm
Tennessee refused to go away quietly, led by Talaysia Cooper, who finished with 24 points. The Lady Vols managed to trim the deficit to just three points late in the third quarter following a Mia Pauldo triple.
However, NC State responded with veteran-like composure. The Wolfpack closed the game on a 19–13 run in the fourth quarter, fueled by the steady free-throw shooting of Destiny Lunan (4-of-4) and the continued aggression of Jones.
Up Next: Battle for the Sweet 16
With the win, the 7th-seeded Wolfpack advance to the Round of 32. They will stay in Ann Arbor to face the 2nd-seeded Michigan Wolverines on Sunday. Michigan earned its spot earlier today with a dominant 83–48 victory over Holy Cross, led by 20 points from Mila Holloway.
By The Numbers
| Category | NC State | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goal % | 51.0% | 32.9% |
| Points in Paint | 40 | 24 |
| Points off Turnovers | 23 | 18 |
| Fast Break Points | 11 | 4 |
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