04/06/2025
Go Pack!
42 years ago today on April 4, 1983, NC State pulled off one of the greatest upsets in college basketball history, capturing the national championship in unforgettable fashion.
The Wolfpack faced off against the heavily favored Houston Cougars—featuring stars Clyde Drexler and Hakeem Olajuwon—in the NCAA title game at The Pit in Albuquerque, New Mexico. NC State came out strong, leading 33–25 at halftime as Drexler battled foul trouble. But Houston responded with a powerful 17–2 run in the second half, grabbing a seven-point lead and shifting the momentum.
With time winding down and the score tied at 52, NC State had one last shot. Dereck Whittenburg launched a long desperation attempt that fell short—but Lorenzo Charles was there for the iconic putback dunk that stunned the basketball world.
Coach Jim Valvano’s joyous sprint across the court remains one of the most iconic moments in sports history. NC State’s improbable run to the championship is a lasting reminder of the magic of March Madness and the power of believing in the impossible.
