NC State's basketball team is gearing up for the 2026 season, and the early buzz is exciting! According to Ken Pomeroy's preseason ratings, NC State is ranked a impressive 38th, a significant leap from their 125th position at the end of the 2025 season. This puts them in the top half of the ACC, just behind powerhouses like Duke, Louisville, Clemson, and UNC. But it's not just about the ranking; KenPom predicts a top-40 offense and defense, and a 19-10 (11-7) record, which is a promising start. However, this record doesn't include the two games in Maui that are yet to be determined, adding an element of uncertainty. Interestingly, NC State's ranking in the Pomeroy Ratings is nearly identical to their T-Rank (39), but with a slight twist: Torvik's system suggests a slightly better offense and a slightly worse defense. Meanwhile, Evan Miya's ratings place NC State at a respectable 27th, just ahead of UNC. So, as the season approaches, the question on everyone's mind is: Can NC State live up to the hype and make a run at a top-25 ranking? The answer lies on the court, and we'll be watching closely to see if they can make a case for themselves as a contender.
