Raleigh, N.C., December 18, 2025
In a remarkable performance, Paul McNeil Jr. scored a staggering 47 points and made a program-record 11 three-pointers, leading North Carolina State to a commanding 108-72 win over Texas Southern. The sophomore’s achievement marks a significant milestone for the Wolfpack as they rebounded from a recent overtime loss. With stellar shooting accuracy and strong team support, N.C. State showcased their offensive strength at Reynolds Coliseum during their annual Heritage Game.
RALEIGH, N.C.
McNeil Jr. Delivers Record-Setting Performance in N.C. State Victory
Paul McNeil Jr. achieved a program record by sinking 11 three-pointers and notched career highs with 47 points and 10 rebounds, propelling North Carolina State to a dominant 108-72 victory over Texas Southern on Wednesday night. The sophomore guard’s exceptional outing at Reynolds Coliseum marked a significant performance for the Wolfpack, helping them rebound from a recent overtime loss.
Historic Individual Achievement
McNeil Jr.’s record-breaking 11 three-pointers surpassed a program mark set in 1989. His 10th three-pointer, made with 3:34 left in the game, officially broke the long-standing record. The 6-foot-5 guard demonstrated remarkable efficiency, completing 12-of-18 shots from the field, including 11 of 17 from beyond the arc, and was perfect on all 12 of his free-throw attempts. This scoring explosion was the first time an N.C. State player scored at least 40 points since 2014. McNeil Jr. also became the first player since the 2004-05 season to record at least 45 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 three-pointers in a single game. His previous career high was 27 points in a November 12 win against UNC Greensboro.
Team Performance and Game Dynamics
North Carolina State led the game from start to finish, establishing a significant 51-28 advantage by halftime. McNeil Jr. was instrumental in building this early lead, contributing 20 of the team’s first 32 points and hitting seven three-pointers in the first half alone. The Wolfpack’s offense continued its strong performance in the second half, extending their lead to as many as 43 points. The team shot 51% from the field (34 of 57) and made 17 of their 40 attempts from three-point range.
Beyond McNeil Jr.’s heroics, Jerry Deng also made a notable contribution for N.C. State, scoring a season-high 14 points, including four three-pointers. Quadir Copeland facilitated the offense with a team-high nine assists out of the Wolfpack’s 21 total assists. The team’s collective effort resulted in their third game this season exceeding 100 points.
N.C. State capitalized on Texas Southern’s turnovers, scoring 21 points off 13 takeaways. The Wolfpack also dominated in fastbreak points, outscoring their opponents 24-12.
Opponent’s Effort
Texas Southern, with a season record of 1-8, had five players reach double-figure scoring. Zaire Hayes led the Tigers with 16 points. Troy Hupstead contributed 11 points and secured nine rebounds for Texas Southern. Alex Anderson and Bryce Roberts each added 14 points.
Context and Upcoming Schedule
The game against Texas Southern was N.C. State’s annual Heritage Game, played at Reynolds Coliseum, which served as their home arena from 1949 to 1999. The Wolfpack hold an impressive 27-2 record at Reynolds Coliseum since the 1999-2000 season. This win improves N.C. State’s season record to 8-4.
The Wolfpack’s victory followed a narrow 77-76 overtime loss to No. 19 Kansas just days prior. Preseason ACC Player of the Year Darrion Williams did not participate in the game due to a shoulder injury but is expected to return for N.C. State’s next game. N.C. State is scheduled to face Mississippi on Sunday in Greensboro, North Carolina. Texas Southern will host Abilene Christian on Monday.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the final score of the N.C. State vs. Texas Southern game?
- North Carolina State defeated Texas Southern with a final score of 108-72.
- Who was the top scorer for N.C. State in the game?
- Paul McNeil Jr. was the top scorer for N.C. State, achieving a career-high of 47 points.
- How many three-pointers did Paul McNeil Jr. make?
- Paul McNeil Jr. made a program-record 11 three-pointers during the game.
- What other statistical achievements did Paul McNeil Jr. have?
- In addition to his 47 points and 11 three-pointers, Paul McNeil Jr. also grabbed 10 rebounds. He also shot 12-of-18 from the field and was perfect on all 12 of his free-throw attempts.
- When did the N.C. State vs. Texas Southern game take place?
- The game took place on Wednesday night, December 17, 2025.
- What was the significance of this game for N.C. State?
- This was N.C. State’s annual Heritage Game, played at Reynolds Coliseum. It also marked their rebound from a recent overtime loss to No. 19 Kansas.
Key Features of McNeil Jr.’s Performance
| Category | Statistic | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Points Scored | 47 | Career-high, first N.C. State player to score 40+ since 2014. |
| Three-Pointers Made | 11 | Program record, breaking a mark set in 1989. |
| Rebounds | 10 | Career-high. |
| Field Goal Percentage | 12-of-18 (66.7%) | Efficient shooting. |
| Three-Point Percentage | 11-of-17 (64.7%) | High accuracy from long range. |
| Free Throw Percentage | 12-of-12 (100%) | Perfect from the charity stripe. |
| Game Type | NCAA Men’s Basketball | Part of the regular season. |
| Opponent | Texas Southern | Resulted in a 108-72 victory for N.C. State. |
| Date | Wednesday, December 17, 2025 | Occurred recently. |
| Location | Reynolds Coliseum, Raleigh, N.C. | N.C. State’s annual Heritage Game. |
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