NC State just scored a massive late Transfer Portal win, with Ven-Allen Lubin returning to the Wolfpack for another season. For Justin Gainey, this could dramatically change the ceiling of his first NC State roster.
Here are some more thoughts on Lubin's return to NC State!
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In this breakdown, we look at what Lubin's return means schematically and why the fit is more interesting than simply adding another talented frontcourt player.
Pairing Lubin with Kyle Evans gives NC State two physical, efficient interior options — including Evans, who led Division I in blocked shots last season.
Does playing two non-shooting bigs create spacing concerns? Absolutely. But NC State may have the perimeter shooting to compensate. Preston Edmead, Christian Hammond and Paul McNeil give the Wolfpack a potentially dangerous shooting backcourt, while Lubin and Evans can create opportunities as screeners, rollers and interior finishers.
The bigger story may be flexibility. Justin Gainey can play big with Lubin and Evans, create more spacing with players like Eemeli Yalaho and Robert Jurkovic, or adjust the rotation based on matchups.
Key Takeaways
Spacing: Why playing Lubin and Evans together could still work offensively.
Shooting: How NC State's guards can open the floor for its frontcourt. Defense: Why two legitimate rim protectors could transform the Wolfpack.
Depth: Lubin gives Gainey far more lineup and rotation options.
Ceiling: NC State now has another proven ACC player it can confidently build around.
