Preview: Virginia Visits NC State in Key ACC Clash

RALEIGH, N.C. (Interstat) — Two Atlantic Coast Conference teams looking to build early momentum meet Saturday when the Virginia Cavaliers visit the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Lenovo Center.

The Cavaliers (11-2, 0-1 ACC) aim to rebound from a draining conference-opening loss, while the Wolfpack (10-4, 1-0) seek to continue a strong start to league play.

Virginia arrives after a 95-85 triple-overtime road defeat at Virginia Tech on Wednesday. Despite the loss, forward Thijs De Ridder delivered a standout performance with 22 points, 13 rebounds and five assists in 44 minutes. De Ridder, averaging 20.2 points over his last five games, is Virginia’s focal point.

NC State opened its ACC schedule with a 70-57 home win over Wake Forest on Wednesday, powered by Ven-Allen Lubin’s 12 points and 11 rebounds. Lubin has been a consistent force, posting three double-doubles in his last seven contests.

The matchup features contrasting strengths. Virginia, under coach Tony Bennett, leads the nation in scoring defense, allowing just 58.2 points per game. Their disciplined system will be tested by an NC State squad averaging 79.6 points and showing offensive balance, with four players averaging double figures.

The Wolfpack’s nonconference schedule provided stiff tests, including a narrow 77-76 overtime loss to then-Kansas. Coach Kevin Keatts’ team has shown resilience but will need to solve Virginia’s trademark pack-line defense.

Virginia’s offense runs through De Ridder and guard Malik Thomas, who scored 26 against Virginia Tech. NC State will counter with Lubin inside and a backcourt led by Quadir Copeland, who dished out eight assists against Wake Forest.

History favors the Cavaliers, who have won 12 of the last 15 meetings. However, the Wolfpack are 7-1 at home this season.

Saturday’s contest is the first of two scheduled meetings this season. The outcome will provide an early indicator of each team’s trajectory in a deep ACC race.

Tipoff is set for 2 p.m. EST. The game will be broadcast on the ACC Network.