Wolfpack’s Roaring Debut
When Will Wade stepped onto the court for his first game in Raleigh, the energy was palpable. He paid homage to the program’s storied past by reviving Everett Case’s infamous noise meter and slipping on throwback uniforms that echo the ’70s era of David Thompson and Kenny Carr. It wasn’t just a nostalgic stunt; the whole vibe felt like a signal that the Pack is aiming to recapture that old‑school excitement.
The numbers tell the story loud and clear: a 114‑66 demolition of North Carolina Central. Six Wolfpack players cracked double figures, a rare feat when only two returnees were in the lineup from last season. The ball moved with purpose, the defense swarmed, and the offense seemed to click on its first try. NCCU, despite the leadership of LeVelle Moton, simply couldn’t match the depth and athleticism that an ACC roster typically commands.
What’s striking is how the team looked as a unit. The ball was passed with confidence, the transition game was swift, and the bench stayed engaged. For a program that’s been searching for a clear identity, Wade’s opening night felt like a blueprint for a fast‑paced, high‑energy brand of basketball. If this is a glimpse of what’s to come, the rest of the conference should be ready for some fireworks.
Tar Heels Take Flight
Just a short drive away in Chapel Hill, the Tar Heels rolled out a 94‑54 victory over Central Arkansas, and freshman Caleb Wilson was the headline act. He opened with four thunderous dunks, setting the tone for a night where he finished with 22 points on an efficient 8‑10 shooting display. Wilson’s athleticism will be a headache for opponents all season long.
He wasn’t the only one lighting up the scoreboard. Henri Veesaar contributed a solid double‑double with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while point guard Kyan Evans orchestrated the offense, adding 15 points, six boards and five assists. The Tar Heels looked comfortable, disciplined, and ready to build on the momentum generated by Wilson’s explosive start.
Even though the opponent was a non‑conference foe, the way UNC executed on both ends of the floor hinted at a balanced roster that can adapt to different styles of play. If Wilson continues to develop his game, the Tar Heels could be a genuine threat in the ACC race.
Other ACC Stories Worth a Glance
While the Wolfpack and Tar Heels stole most of the headlines, the rest of the conference delivered a parade of blowouts and close calls that set the tone for a competitive season.
- Louisville turned the lights on with a 104‑45 rout of South Carolina State. The Cardinals built a 59‑15 lead by halftime, thanks to a scorching 10.9% three‑point shooting night for the opponent and a relentless offensive push from Louisville.
- Miami saw its new head coach Jai Lucas make a solid debut, guiding the Hurricanes to an 86‑69 win over Jacksonville. Lucas drew a massive 37 trips to the free‑throw line and nailed 29, showcasing his knack for getting to the line and capitalizing.
- Pittsburgh edged out Youngstown State 74‑59 after a slow start. Cam Corhen’s double‑double (23 points, 12 rebounds) anchored the Panthers, while Aussie Roman Siulepa and Brandin Cummings added valuable contributions.
- Virginia surprised its own fan base with an 87‑53 victory over Rider. Euro import Thijs De Ridder posted a 21‑point, 10‑rebound line, signaling that Ryan Odom’s squad could be more entertaining than the defensive slog many expected.
- Syracuse posted an 85‑47 win over Binghamton, highlighted by Donnie Freeman’s 20 points and Kiyan Anthony’s 15 off the bench. Freshman Mouhamed Sylla’s 14 points and 15 rebounds hinted at a promising inside presence.
Even the games that went to overtime provided drama. FAU survived a nail‑biting 83‑78 OT victory over Boston College, while Georgia Tech escaped with a 56‑52 overtime win over Maryland Eastern Shore. Those close contests remind us that the ACC isn’t just about blowouts; it’s also about grit and late‑game execution.
Looking ahead, the conference’s schedule remains packed with marquee matchups. Florida State will host Alcorn State, Stanford travels to Portland State, and the ever‑anticipated Duke‑Texas showdown promises to be a television highlight. As teams settle into their new systems and freshmen find their footing, the early results suggest a season where traditional powerhouses could be challenged by emerging programs.
In short, the ACC’s opening night delivered a mix of dominant performances, promising debuts, and a few tight finishes that keep fans on the edge of their seats. If the Wolfpack’s electrifying start and the Tar Heels’ smooth execution are any indication, we’re in for a thrilling ride through the 2025‑26 college basketball season.
