NC State Shines in UNC vs NC State After Injury Setbacks
On Feb. 17, 2026, the UNC vs. NC State rivalry lit up Raleigh with a statement result. NC State roared past No. 16 North Carolina, 82–58, on Tuesday night. The Wolfpack seized control early and never let up. UNC battled through key injuries, but NC State’s balanced attack stole the show and rewrote the rivalry script.
How Did NC State Control the Rivalry Game After Injury Chaos?
NC State crushed No. 16 North Carolina 82‑58 on Feb. 17, 2026, at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh. The Wolfpack took charge early, building a 16‑point halftime lead and never looking back. They shot 53.1% from the field, holding UNC to just 31.7%, including a miserable 5‑of‑33 from three. UNC was without top scorers Caleb Wilson and Henri Veesaar due to injuries, leaving the Tar Heels struggling.
Who Led the Charge for NC State?
Quadir Copeland starred with 20 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists, and 4 steals. Matt Able added 19 points, hitting five three-pointers. Darrion Williams contributed 13 points, and Ven‑Allen Lubin added 12. Five Wolfpack players finished in double figures. NC State committed just four turnovers, controlling the pace and tempo throughout.
What Went Wrong for UNC?
Missing Wilson and Veesaar hurt UNC’s scoring and rebounding. Zayden High and Jarin Stevenson scored 13 points each, but the Tar Heels never recovered. Early cold shooting and turnovers against State’s tight defense sealed their fate.
What Does This Mean for the ACC and Postseason?
NC State improves to 19‑8 overall, 10‑4 ACC, securing a crucial Quad 1 win. UNC drops to 20‑6, 8‑5 ACC, raising questions about depth. The result boosts the Wolfpack’s momentum heading into March.
Final Words
On Feb. 17, 2026, NC State seized the rivalry, executed with precision, and delivered a statement victory. The Wolfpack capitalized on injuries, controlled tempo, and made their mark in the ACC.
Frequently Asked Questions
NC State played strong defense and shot 53% while UNC struggled without key players on February 17, 2026.
Quadir Copeland scored 20 points, Matt Able added 19, and Darrion Williams contributed 13 on February 17, 2026.
Caleb Wilson and Henri Veesaar were out, lowering UNC’s scoring and rebounds on February 17, 202
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