Opponent: NC State
Time: 11 am
Network: ESPN2
Line: North Carolina State -3.5
Bring Back the Physicality
It is no secret that Virginia Tech set the tone in the world of physicality, and they had Virginia on their heels the entire game. Virginia Tech’s freshman Christian Gurdak (17 points and 19 rebounds) was the best big man on the floor not Thijs De Ridder.
That shouldn’t be the case against North Carolina State. The Cavaliers should be able to dominate the paint and that should show up not only in paint points but also in rebounds and free throw attempts.
Pace Balance
North Carolina State is going to try and make this a track meet. They successfully did it against Wake Forest and although the Wolfpack wasn’t always efficient, the Demon Deacons were worse.
The Cavaliers can score in more diverse ways and shouldn’t be bothered by North Carolina State’s pace, but it can’t dictate Virginia’s shot selection.
Yes, play fast but look to get early post ups and attacks to the front of the rim to put constant pressure on a North Carolina State team that isn’t always motivated to defend.
Cope with Quadir
Most will say Preseason ACC Player of the Year Darrion Williams is the best player on North Carolina State. At the very least, he has the most pro potential, but he isn’t the most important player.
That distinction would go to Quadir Copeland.
Copeland is the straw that stirs the drink. He is the leader of the offense. He’s their primary distributor who can score (14.1 points per game), get others involved (5.9 assists per game), and is their unquestioned leader.
As North Carolina State head coach Will Wade tries to figure out ways to explain why Williams hasn’t had the impact some thought he would, Copeland has kept the ship afloat by making those around him better while delivering when need be.
