It’s hard to define what a player means to a program, even more so when three of its most accomplished players don the same jersey at the same time.

Senior guards Aziaha James and Saniya Rivers and graduate guard Madison Hayes made up one of, if not the best trio in NC State women’s basketball history. The three took the Wolfpack to new heights, recording milestone after milestone in their historic collegiate careers.

From bringing the Wolfpack to its first Final Four appearance in over 25 years to the third-longest active home winning streak in the nation, James, Rivers and Hayes gave NC State everything they had and then some.

James will be immortalized as one of NC State’s most talented scorers — a true three-level guard who could score against any defense. The sharpshooter has been NC State’s top option for the last two seasons, averaging over 17 points per game. James made a name for herself as one of the shiftiest players in the country, producing highlight-reel plays every game while leading the team to greatness. The lefty is now regarded as a first-round hopeful in the upcoming WNBA Draft.

Rivers was simply a Swiss Army knife, able to do whatever whenever it was needed. Whether it was a clutch midrange jumper, a plethora of rebounds or a flashy assist, Rivers could provide. But it was her defense that really drew the eyes of WNBA scouts. Her six-foot-one frame, long wingspan and hustle made Rivers a vicious defender, able to guard any position on the court. Like James, she is also a first-round projection in the upcoming WNBA Draft and will be heavily sought after.

While many analysts constantly talked about the impact that James and Rivers had, few talked about the impact of Hayes. However, NC State fans knew just how important she was to the team. In head coach Wes Moore’s four-guard lineup, Hayes was forced to play out of position, playing in the four position instead of the three. Even though she was undersized, her hardworking attitude and perseverance made her a crucial part of the Wolfpack’s success. Hayes quickly became one of the best 3-and-D players in the country, averaging seven rebounds per game while shooting 41% from beyond the arc.

Though they were all great individual players, it was the trio’s chemistry that brought the team together and spearheaded the past two seasons of NC State’s success. They weren’t just teammates — they were best friends, and it showed on the court. Every 3-pointer, jumper or acrobatic layup was cause for celebration as they hyped each other up through every game.

While their performance on the court won over analysts and coaches, it was their actions off the court that drew the hearts of the Wolfpack faithful. No matter where you saw them, the veterans always had a smile on their faces. Unlike some athletes who treat fans like pests or annoyances, the trio embraced fans as if they were family. Whether it was mid-game interactions with those who sat courtside or visiting students before games, they made sure to include the fans in everything they did.

And because of their kindness, Wolfpack Nation matched their energy tenfold. Reynolds Coliseum sold out game after game to see the beloved squad play, with some loyal students even camping out the night before NC State’s matchup against then-No. 1 Notre Dame just to make sure they got the best seats in the house — an action that Rivers said even brought her to tears.

Yes, their impact on the court was more than enough to be remembered for, but it was their infectious energy and the way they got an entire fanbase to rally around women’s basketball like never before that will immortalize them in NC State legend.

To three NC State legends, Wolfpack fans thank you for everything you’ve done in the red-and-white. Your impact will not be forgotten.