The action on the field did its part. NC State and South Carolina played a competitive and highly invested game befitting both the spirit of postseason play and the convergence of major conference talent.
With its top third of the batting order becoming as dependable as the sunrise, the Wolfpack grinded out a, 6-4, win that moves them to Sunday’s regional final. NC State will face the winner of James Madison and South Carolina’s noon matchup needing one win in a possible two games to advance to the Super Regional for the second time in four seasons.
With its homers, clutch pitching, quirky plays, and what was at stake, the game was bound to excite its spectators.
But it was the patrons themselves who helped tell the tale for Saturday’s event.
The crowd at Doak Field was fabulous. The stands were filled with people who were highly invested in the action on the field. If the game waned, the fans generated enthusiasm to spur their favorite team.
Getting caught up in the action leaves little time for nostalgia but afterward, there was a fleeting moment between NC State’s win and the turning of the page to what was at stake Sunday where it was hard not to consider where the program had been and where it is going – especially in consideration of its facilities.
Doak is not where people want it to be, nor where it needs to be, but Saturday it was at one of its better moments. The potential is easier to grasp.
A special and meaningful baseball game was played. Raleigh was ready, NC State facilities was ready, and Doak Field was ready. As such, the night became memorable.
With all due respect to the cities of Wilson and Kinston, the days of NC State asking someone else to handle its baseball business are long gone.
The best way to live life is to have excitement at the moment and hope for an even better tomorrow. If NCSU continues to invest in itself as it pertains to baseball, that is exactly the type of life it will be living.
NC State baseball was special Saturday night. The next step is to turn special into normal, and the path to that point is becoming clearer. It is doable and the Wolfpack is not far away.
Elliott Avent was undoubtedly proud to be a part of it. Perhaps in a small way, Ray Tanner was too. A lot of blood and sweat got NC State where it is. Those efforts certainly matter.
