Preview: NC State Wolfpack at Wake Forest Demon Deacons

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Interstat) — Surging North Carolina State looks to extend its win streak and solidify its ACC standing when it visits struggling Wake Forest at Joel Coliseum on Saturday.

The Wolfpack (15-6, 5-3 ACC) have won four of their last five, including an 88-68 rout of Syracuse on Tuesday. They are powered by guard Quadir Copeland, who is averaging 17.4 points and 7.6 assists over his last seven games. In the January win over Syracuse, he had 19 points and nine assists. Darrion Williams added 23 points in that victory.

Wake Forest (11-10, 3-6) seeks to halt a three-game skid, with all losses coming by single digits, including a 76-80 overtime defeat at Pittsburgh on Tuesday. The Demon Deacons have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 87 points during their losing streak. Guard Myles Colvin, who scored 18 points in 42 minutes against Pitt, will be a key offensive catalyst.

The teams met just over a month ago in Raleigh, with NC State securing a 70-57 victory on Dec. 31. The Wolfpack’s current momentum contrasts sharply with Wake Forest’s recent fortunes. NC State’s offense has been potent, scoring 80 or more points in five of its last seven games.

For Wake Forest, reversing its fortunes will require improved perimeter defense and more consistent scoring beyond Colvin. The Demon Deacons are 8-3 at home this season, offering a potential advantage.

A win would bolster NC State’s conference resume, while Wake Forest desperately needs a signature ACC victory to revitalize its season.

Tip-off is set for Saturday afternoon.