Their 1st half struggle was clearly evident, as it took them a full 11 minutes to get on the board. The Wolfpack had a comfortable 10-point lead at one point, mainly by dominating the paint. Hot Boys were playing small ball and it didn’t work against Wolfpack, based on all the fouling.

This was the time for Wolfpack to really take advantage before Hot Boys got hot, but they were sloppy with the ball at times as well. Hot Boys started communicating toward the last few minutes of the half and were able to close the gap to within 5. Wolfpack led this low scoring game 20-15 at the break. D. Wiggins had 8 points to lead his team while Antonio Burnett II had 9 for the Hot Boys.

The second half was much more intense and physical. Hot Boys did not want to lose, and it showed through their defense and behind the leadership of Antonio. Wolfpack didn’t falter underneath Hot Boys overpowering defense as they continued to look and take the best shot selection and grab offensive boards.

Up until the 5-minute mark, Hot Boys had never led and Wolfpack were making them work had for every bucket, but then the flame was lit. Wolfpack started looking tired and Hot Boys grabbed their first lead with 3:30 minutes remaining. In a very loud and intense final 2 minutes, Hot Boys were able to hold off Wolfpack and win 44-42.

D. Wiggins led the Pack with a double-double (13 points, 11 rebounds) and 1 block. For Hot Boys, Antonio Burnett II was on fire finishing with 19 points, 3 assists and 7 rebounds. Behind him was Tanner Cecen with 11 points, 6 steals, 1 assist and 3 rebounds.