GREENSBORO, N.C. (Interstat) — In a back-and-forth season opener that came down to the final seconds, the North Carolina State Wolfpack edged the Tennessee Lady Volunteers 80-77 in a non-conference women’s basketball thriller Tuesday afternoon at Corbett Sports Center.

A crowd of 4,731 saw the Wolfpack, favored by 1.5 points, narrowly cover the spread in a game that also went over the projected total of 149.5. The victory gave North Carolina State a 1-0 start to the season, while Tennessee begins 0-1.

The game was a tale of contrasting quarters, with both teams seizing momentum at different stages. Tennessee burst out of the gate, pouring in 24 points in the opening period, but North Carolina State answered with 25 of its own to hold a slim one-point lead. The Lady Volunteers tightened their defense in the second quarter, outscoring the Wolfpack 20-15 to take a 44-40 lead into halftime.

The third quarter saw another shift, as North Carolina State’s offense found its rhythm again, outscoring Tennessee 23-18 to reclaim a 63-62 advantage heading into the final frame. The fourth quarter was a tense, physical battle, with the Wolfpack doing just enough, scoring 17 points to Tennessee’s 15, to secure the three-point victory.

The outcome was ultimately decided at the free-throw line in the game’s waning moments. With just two seconds remaining and North Carolina State clinging to a one-point lead, Zamareya Jones was fouled and calmly sank both free throws to extend the lead to three. Tennessee’s desperation heave at the buzzer was off the mark, sealing the win for the home team.

Individual performances highlighted the tightly contested nature of the game. Tennessee’s Talaysia Cooper delivered a stellar all-around effort, leading all scorers with 23 points while also pulling down 11 rebounds and dishing out 7 assists. Janiah Barker provided crucial scoring support for the Lady Volunteers with 15 points, and Jaida Civil added 13 points off the bench.

North Carolina State countered with a balanced and powerful inside presence. Khamil Pierre recorded a double-double with 21 points and 14 rebounds, dominating the paint. She was complemented by Tilda Trygger, who added 19 points and 8 rebounds, and Zoe Brooks, who also notched a double-double with 13 points and 11 assists. Zamareya Jones was a key facilitator and scorer, finishing with 18 points and 5 assists.

The teams were remarkably even in several statistical categories. Both squads scored 38 points in the paint. However, Tennessee capitalized more effectively on opponent mistakes, scoring 16 points off turnovers compared to just 9 for the Wolfpack.

The game was a significant early test for both programs. Tennessee will look to rebound quickly, with its next contest at home against East Tennessee State on Friday. North Carolina State, meanwhile, will prepare for a high-profile neutral-site clash against Southern Carolina this Sunday in Charlotte.