Burns, Diarra Lead N.C. State to Season-Opening 72-59 Win Over The Citadel

NC State dominated the game start to finish on the back of double-digit scoring from Burns, O'Connell and Diarra, who also pulled down 14 rebounds in the victory over The Citadel.

• D.J. Burns Jr. led the North Carolina State Wolfpack with 16 points in their 72-59 season-opening win over The Citadel. Michael O’Connell added 14 points, and Mohamed Diarra recorded a double-double with 10 points and 14 rebounds.
• The Citadel, which struggled from the 3-point line, was led by AJ Smith with 15 points, primarily from free throws. Smith was the only Bulldogs player to finish in double-figure scoring.
• The Wolfpack, which had eight newcomers including O’Connell, who transferred from Stanford, never trailed in the game. They managed to establish a decisive lead within the first 10 minutes of the second half.
• Diarra contributed significantly in his Wolfpack debut, blocking three shots apart from his double-double. On the other hand, Burns set the tone early on by scoring the first three baskets of the match.
• Despite the loss, The Citadel managed an advantage in rebounds, 39-38. NC State however, was superior in other aspects, including 3-point shooting and assists.

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