As the NCAA Tournament approaches, NC State basketball is gearing up for a crucial matchup against Texas in the First Four, scheduled for March 17, 2026. The game will take place in Dayton, Ohio, with a start time of approximately 9:40 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on TruTV.
NC State enters the tournament as an 11-seed in the West Regional, marking their 30th appearance in the NCAA Tournament. The team has an all-time record of 41-28 in the tournament, showcasing their historical competitiveness on this national stage.
This year’s tournament is particularly significant as it is NC State’s first under head coach Will Wade. The team comes into the tournament with a record of 20-13, reflecting a season of ups and downs but ultimately leading them to this pivotal moment.
The matchup against Texas will be the seventh meeting between the two programs, with Texas currently leading the all-time series 4-2. Earlier this season, the teams faced off in the Maui Invitational, where Texas narrowly defeated NC State 102-98 in a high-scoring affair.
The stakes are high for both teams, as the winner will advance to face sixth-seed BYU in Portland on Thursday. This adds an extra layer of intensity to an already critical game, as both teams aim to keep their championship hopes alive.
NC State’s previous tournament appearance in 2024 saw them reach the Final Four, a feat that has raised expectations for this year’s squad. Fans are hopeful that the team can replicate or even surpass that success, especially with the momentum gained from their recent performances.
As the game approaches, anticipation builds among players and fans alike. The outcome of this matchup could significantly impact the trajectory of NC State’s basketball program under Coach Wade.
With the tournament’s unpredictable nature, anything can happen, and NC State will need to bring their best game to secure a victory against a formidable Texas team.
As the clock ticks down to game time, the excitement surrounding NC State basketball continues to grow, with hopes of a deep tournament run on the horizon.
