Pat Andree Living His Dream
Like many young basketball players, Pat Andree grew up dreaming of getting the opportunity to play in the ACC. During his time in high school he did all he could to garner interest from marquee programs.
He finished his high school career just 13 points shy of 2,000 and as the leading scorer at one of the best basketball schools in the state. He averaged a double-double with 25 points and 10 rebounds while shooting 45% from the three-point line as a senior. Despite his numbers, ACC schools never came calling, and as a result he decided to go to Lehigh.
With the Mountain Hawks he picked up where he left off in high school. He made his mark as a shooter, just like in high school. During his three years at Lehigh he shot 39%, 43%, and 42% from three-point range, good for 41.5% during his career.
He decided to enter the transfer portal as a grad transfer, and NC State was one of many schools that came calling.
“The first day I got nearly 100 calls from different schools,” Andree said. “Some were D1, D2, D3. I took the first couple days and talked to who I needed to and hearing out who was interested.”
He cut his list to Kansas State, TCU, Marquette, and NC State. He took his first visit to Raleigh and knew what he wanted to do with his final year of eligibility. This was the opportunity to play in the ACC that he had wanted for years, and it was too good to pass up.
“I’m really excited,” Andree said. “It’s a different change coming from the Patriot League. It’s been a goal of mine to play in the ACC. This year is my chance to prove it.”
Head coach Kevin Keatts had glowing things to say at media day about his new sharpshooter.
“Pat Andree is as good a shooter as I’ve seen in a long time,” Keatts said. “What makes him special is that he is 6’8” and has the ability to get a shot off against anybody.”
Through five games, Andree is averaging 9.4 points and 4.3 rebounds per game while shooting 50% from three -point range.
Obviously shooting is the biggest reason Keatts wanted Andree, but he also adds versatility to an already versatile team.
“(Keatts) isn’t afraid to play small,” Andree said. “We’re all capable of playing the 4 and 5.”
As is the case with most players who graduate and transfer from a mid-major to a major conference school, Andree has his sights set on the NCAA tournament and thinks that is a realistic goal for the Wolfpack.
“I think we have the talent and versatility to be a very good team up front and in the backcourt,” Andree said.
Andree’s shooting, experience, and versatility is a big reason for that.