As NC State fans, we’ll always have a special place in our hearts for Raina Perez. When she arrived in 2020 as a graduate transfer, she didn’t just join the team, she became family. Standing at just 5’4″, Raina played with the heart of a giant and quickly became one of the most beloved Wolfpack guards in recent memory.
In her first season, she averaged 9.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.7 assists while leading the ACC in assists. We’ll never forget that game-winning jumper with 2.1 seconds left to clinch the 2021 ACC Tournament title against Louisville. That shot still gives us chills.
She returned for one more year in 2021-22, starting all 36 games and putting up 8.6 points, 2.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. Her clutch plays during the Elite Eight run, especially that steal and layup against Notre Dame in the Sweet 16, showed exactly why we loved watching her. Raina brought leadership, toughness, and pure joy to the court every single night.
Thank you, Raina, for everything you gave to NC State. You helped deliver back-to-back ACC championships and took us deeper into March than many of us dreamed. Your journey from transfer to fan favorite will always be remembered fondly in Raleigh.
Today, we’re proud to see you thriving as an assistant coach at Portland State, where you’re now in your second season. Once a Wolfpacker, always a Wolfpacker!
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