🏀 NC State Powers Past Tennessee, 76–61, Behind Zamareya Jones’ 30-Piece

RALEIGH, NC — No. 7 seed NC State (21-10) delivered a statement performance in the NCAA Tournament, defeating No. 10 Tennessee (16-14) 76-61 behind a dominant outing from Zamareya Jones.

The Wolfpack controlled the game early and never let Tennessee fully recover, using efficient offense, physical rebounding, and defensive pressure to secure the win.

🔥 Fast Start Sets the Tone

NC State came out aggressive, building a 26-19 lead after the first quarter and extending it to 40-29 at halftime.

➡️ The Wolfpack shot efficiently and dictated tempo
➡️ Tennessee struggled to find consistency offensively

By the fourth quarter, NC State maintained full control, closing it out with confidence.

🌟 Zamareya Jones Takes Over

Zamareya Jones delivered one of the best performances of the tournament so far:

• 30 points

• 9-15 FG

• 10-13 FT

• 5 steals

➡️ Elite efficiency
➡️ Big-time shot making
➡️ Defensive impact

She was the clear difference-maker on both ends of the floor.

💪 Frontcourt Dominance: Khamil Pierre

Khamil Pierre anchored the paint with a double-double:

• 16 points

• 12 rebounds

• Strong interior presence on both ends

Her physicality helped NC State control the glass and limit second chances.

🎯 Supporting Cast Steps Up

NC State received key contributions across the lineup:

• Qadence Samuels: 12 points (efficient 4-5 FG)

• Zoe Brooks: 8 points

• Tilda Trygger: 6 points, 4 assists

Team Stats:

• 51% shooting (26-51 FG)

• 21-25 FT (84%)

• 32 rebounds

• 11 steals

➡️ Efficient. Disciplined. Complete.

⚔️ Tennessee’s Effort Falls Short

Despite the loss, Talaysia Cooper led Tennessee with a strong performance:

• 24 points

• 4 threes

• 6 rebounds

Bench production helped keep Tennessee competitive:

• Deniya Prawl: 9 points

• Jersey Wolfenbarger: 9 points

However, Tennessee struggled overall:

• 33% FG shooting

• 7-36 from three (19%)

• 17 turnovers

➡️ Inefficiency and turnovers proved costly.

📊 By the Numbers

NC State:

• 76 points

• 51% FG

• 84% FT

• 11 steals

Tennessee:

• 61 points

• 33% FG

• 19% 3PT

• 17 turnovers

🔮 What This Means

NC State advances looking like a dangerous mid-seed contender with:

✅ A go-to star in Zamareya Jones
✅ Interior strength with Pierre
✅ Efficient team offense
✅ Defensive playmaking

If this level continues, the Wolfpack could make a deep March run.

🗣️ Final Take

This was a complete performance by NC State—led by a superstar showing from Zamareya Jones.

Tennessee had moments, but the Wolfpack’s efficiency and defensive pressure proved too much.

➡️ NC State is moving on—and they’re gaining momentum at the right time.

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