Darrion Williams Leads NC State to 84 to 83 Road Win Over SMU in ACC Showdown

DALLAS -- In a breaking update from Atlantic Coast Conference play, Darrion Williams scored 25 points and Quadir Copeland recorded a turnover-free double double to lift NC State to an 84 to 83 road victory over SMU on Tuesday night, extending the Wolfpack’s perfect ACC road record.

NC State improved to 17 and 6 overall and 8 and 2 in league play, maintaining a 6 and 0 mark in away games this season, a notable achievement that positions the Wolfpack among the ACC’s most consistent road performers. Copeland was central to the win, distributing a career high 16 assists without committing a turnover and adding 10 rebounds, combining playmaking and defensive discipline rarely seen at this level.

Williams anchored the Wolfpack attack with 25 points, while reserve Matt Able scored 13 and both Tre Holloman and Ven Allen Lubin chipped in 11 each, giving NC State balanced scoring through multiple lineup configurations. The sequence of the game shifted late when Copeland missed two key foul shots with 15 seconds remaining. With no timeouts left, SMU looked to Boopie Miller for the final shot, but Holloman’s stifling defense and a critical block on Miller’s up and under attempt sealed the narrow margin.

SMU (15 7, 4 5) received a strong performance from Jaron Pierre Jr, who scored 23 points, while Miller added 14 and B J Edwards and Corey Washington each scored 11. The Mustangs led by as many as 13 points in the first half, powered by a 10 0 run that featured Edwards hitting a three, Pierre’s step back jumper, a long range make by Miller and a dunk by Pierre that pushed SMU ahead 42 29 before halftime.

The latest timeline impact came midway through the second half when NC State executed an 11 2 run to erase an eight point deficit and take a 61 60 lead, ignited by Able’s three pointer with 10 57 remaining. Terrance Arceneaux added to the comeback with a classic three point play that gave the Wolfpack their first double digit lead of the game at 75 64 with just over six minutes left. NC State’s ability to respond after falling behind reflected improved bench contributions and strategic adjustments by coach Kevin Keatts.

Statistically, NC State’s road success this season mirrors league trends where teams that defend efficiently and share the ball tend to outperform expectations away from home. Copeland’s assist total ties into that narrative and underscores his evolution as a floor general. Conversely for SMU, despite an early offensive surge, second half execution faltered just enough to cost the Mustangs key possessions down the stretch.

What this means moving forward is significant for both programs. NC State’s road win streak in ACC play enhances its resume for NCAA Tournament seeding and cements the Wolfpack as a legitimate contender in the league. For SMU, the loss underscores the need for late game offensive consistency and defensive execution in tight contests.

Next steps for both teams come rapidly. NC State returns home to host Virginia Tech on Saturday in a matchup that could further solidify its standing near the top of the ACC.

SMU will travel to face Pittsburgh on Saturday where it will aim to rebound and regain momentum in conference play.