Boise State vs NC State: Maui Invitational Showdown Set After Opening Losses

Boise State basketball faces No. 23 NC State in the Maui Invitational consolation bracket. The game tips off Tuesday, November 25, at the Lahaina Civic Center in Hawaii. Both teams are looking to rebound after tough opening-round losses in the prestigious tournament.The matchup provides a critical test for each squad early in the season. A win here can build momentum before returning to mainland play.

Broncos Stumble Against USC in Tight Contest

Boise State fell 70-67 to USC in their Maui opener. The Broncos had a chance to tie the game with a last-second three-point attempt. The shot missed its mark, sealing the narrow defeat.According to ESPN, Rodney Rice led the Trojans with 27 points. Boise State struggled from beyond the arc, hitting only 20% of their three-point attempts. This was well below their season average.Despite the loss, the Broncos showed strength inside. They scored 40 points in the paint and won the rebounding battle. Coach Leon Rice acknowledged the hard-fought nature of the game.

Ranked Wolfpack Upset by Seton Hall Offense

NC State entered the tournament ranked 23rd nationally. Their ranking is now in jeopardy after an 85-74 loss to Seton Hall. The Wolfpack defense allowed the Pirates to shoot 52% from the field.Seton Hall’s AJ Staton-McCray scored a team-high 22 points. The Pirates’ efficient offense proved too much for NC State to handle. The loss drops the Wolfpack to a 4-1 record for the season.Star player Darrion Williams continues to lead the team in scoring. He averages 21.0 points per game on impressive shooting efficiency. The team will lean on him for a bounce-back performance.

 

What to Expect in the Consolation Matchup

This game pits Boise State’s interior presence against NC State’s offensive firepower. The Broncos must improve their outside shooting to keep the Wolfpack defense honest. NC State needs to rediscover its defensive identity after the Seton Hall game.The consolation bracket still offers valuable experience against high-level competition. Both coaches will use this game to assess their team’s resilience. The outcome could significantly impact non-conference resumes.The winner will advance to face either Texas or Chaminade in the next round. The loser will play one final game in Maui to conclude the tournament.

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This Boise State vs NC State clash is a pivotal moment for both programs, offering a chance to salvage a crucial early-season tournament run.

Thought you’d like to know-

What channel is the Boise State vs NC State game on?

The game will be televised on ESPN2. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:30 PM Eastern Time. Fans can also stream the action on the ESPN app.

What are the records of each team?

Boise State’s record moved to 4-2 after the loss to USC. NC State holds a 4-1 record following their defeat against Seton Hall. Both teams had perfect records before the tournament.

Who is the leading scorer for Boise State?

Andrew Meadow leads the Broncos with 14.5 points per game. He was named to the preseason All-Mountain West team. Meadow is a consistent three-point shooting threat for the team.

Why is this Maui Invitational game important?

Games against ranked opponents are crucial for postseason consideration. A win boosts a team’s resume and national profile. It also provides a quality win that selection committees value in March.

How has NC State’s defense performed this season?

The defense was a weakness in the loss to Seton Hall. The Wolfpack allowed a high shooting percentage and numerous three-pointers. Coach Will Wade will likely emphasize defensive adjustments for this game.