The expression “numbers never lie” is one frequently used when it comes to statistics in sports. Even though statistics don’t tell the entire story of a team or season, they can reveal a lot of information about a team.
The 2012-13 men’s basketball team’s stat line has been impressive this season. The Wolfpack is one of two teams in the ACC that boasts five double-digit scorers, with one coming off the bench. State also ranks in the top 40 nationally in three offensive statistics. It is first in the nation in field goal percentage, shooting 53.1 percent from the field. The Pack also ranks 11th in scoring at 81.2 points per game, and 22nd in 3-point field goal percentage, shooting .392 percent from the field.
State is also lighting up the statistical rankings within the ACC. The Wolfpack is ranked first in field goal percentage, second in scoring, third in 3-point field goal percentage and 11th in points allowed, giving up 69.7 points per game.
Statistics and trends go hand-in-hand. Many successful teams have achieved similar statistics en route to winning championships.
Last season’s Division I champion, the Kentucky Wildcats, tied for eighth nationally in field goal percentage. The Wildcats also had each of its five starters scoring in double digits. The last national champion from the ACC, the 2009-10 Duke Blue Devils, tied for 24th nationally in 3-point field goal percentage, shooting .385 from the field. They also ranked 23rd in total scoring, averaging 78.4 points per outing.
Duke also posted impressive numbers within the conference. It was second in scoring, first in 3-point percentage and eighth in field-goal percentage.
When it comes to producing an ACC champion-caliber team, the numbers also lean in N.C. State’s favor. UNC Chapel-Hill, last season’s regular season champion, had three out of its five starters scoring in double digits and was second nationally in scoring, posting 82.0 points per game.
Wolfpack fans can only hope that these statistics on the offensive end can result in the program raising a banner or two in the PNC Arena. They’re providing some hope for a rejuvenated program and fan base.
Defensively, the Wolfpack isn’t putting out any eye-popping statistics. However, the ACC schedule is under way and the Pack will play its second in-conference matchup tonight against Georgia Tech.
Therefore, if numbers really never lie, the heat will rise and defensive stats will become the name of the game for each team in the conference.
