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NC State basketball fans, this one’s for you: we lay out the NC State starting lineup for opening night, where Darrion Williams belongs in the lineup, and how Will Wade should balance experience and upside across the backcourt and frontcourt.
With the season set to begin Nov. 3, it’s decision time for the Wolfpack.
What we cover: the point-guard call (Tre Holloman vs. a bigger, switch-friendly option), the ripple effects of slotting Williams at the 4, and why Ven-Allen Lubin is the steady day-one answer at the 5. We also hit how depth pieces (Arceneaux, McNeil, Copeland, Sagnia, Deng) let Wade play hot-hand and still keep continuity. Big picture: this roster has multiple iterations in it — expect tweaks early, clarity by March.
Two timely notes for context: Williams and Lubin represented NC State at ACC Tipoff, underscoring their central roles, and ESPN/ACC announced the men’s hoops TV slate kicking off Nov. 3 — the clock is ticking on lineup decisions.
Takeaways
Build around Williams: His two-way versatility at the 4 unlocks the cleanest two-way lineups.
Make the PG choice fit identity: If switching 1–5 is the goal, size and defense at point guard matter.
Start reliability, weaponize the bench: Use Arceneaux/McNeil/Deng/Sagnia/Copeland to change pace and cover foul trouble.
Lubin stabilizes the 5: Efficient touch around the rim and comfort in P&R make him a day-one fit.
Expect evolution: Game 1 starters may not be the March five — and that’s fine if roles are defined.
