Boston College and North Carolina State meet on Saturday afternoon in Raleigh, NC, and the game has significant consequences after the season within the Atlantic Conference.
This is because only 15 of the 18 teams in the extended league will qualify for the ACC tournament. The two teams facing Raleigh are both in danger of being left out.
NC State (9-15, 2-11 ACC) has lost nine games in a row. Boston College (10-14, 2-11) has a three-game-skid, including Wednesday night’s defeat 97-94 in double-overtime to Notre Dame after a triple overtime at Syracuse.
“It’s been tough,” said Boston College coach Earl Grant. “As they continue to go through these situations, hopefully we are in these situations again. You learn from your past experiences and you will find a way to win these games.”
NC State had more misery with Wednesday night’s home loss 91-66 to Louisville. Trey Parker had 13 points for Wolfpack in that excursion and has led the team in points in consecutive matches.
“If you could give us a label, I would say that we are very inconsistent in our game,” said NC State coach Kevin Keatts.
In the midst of all Wolfpack’s frustrations, there have been encouraging moments from younger players. Parker, a beginner, has received points in double numbers in four matches – with three of those who come over the last five excursions.
“If you want a bright place, I thought Trey Parker will be better,” Keats said.
Senior Breon Pass had 12 points in the Louisville game and marked his career high against an ACC opponent.
Brandon Huntley-Hatfield was back in the NC State range this week after an absence of three games. He took a season high 10 returns.
Boston College’s Woes continues to assemble.
“You continue to encourage them, No. 1,” Grant said. “These guys are really trying. We’ve been in many close battles. … We’ll be better because of it.”
Boston College’s Chad Venning, a degree student from St. Bonaventure, comes from one of its most complete games with effects at both ends of the floor. He poured 21 points and had his third excursion with four blocked shots against Notre Dame.
Venning has made in double figures in four of its last five road excursions.
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