RALEIGH, N.C. — A thrilling showdown unfolded at Reynolds Coliseum on Sunday, February 23, 2025, as the NC State Wolfpack upset the No. 1 ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish, taking the game 104-95 after double overtime. This victory ended Notre Dame's 19-game winning streak, showcasing the Wolfpack's unwavering determination and skill.
Leading the charge for NC State was sophomore guard Zoe Brooks, who delivered a career-high performance, scoring 33 points and securing 10 rebounds for the double-double. Brooks' stellar play included shooting a flawless 14-of-14 from the free-throw line, proving instrumental as she battled against Notre Dame guard Hannah Hidalgo, with whom she has history from their basketball days growing up in New Jersey.
The game was marked by high intensity and significant stakes, with 21 lead changes reflecting the back-and-forth nature of the contest. The Irish, having entered the game on top of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) standings, were aiming for outright clinching of the title. Notre Dame struggled to maintain its momentum and capitalize on its lead early on, as the Wolfpack provided relentless competition.
Notre Dame led 60-57 early in the fourth quarter, only for Brooks to respond with a steal and layup. A defensive stop followed by Tilda Trygger hitting a three-pointer propelled NC State to regain the lead, 62-60. The quarter saw intense competition, resulting in nine ties, with the final tie coming from Sonia Citron’s three-pointer just before regulation expired, sending the game to overtime.
The first overtime period remained tight, with neither team pulling away. Aziaha James' jump shot with just 20 seconds left set the stage for the dramatic double overtime. Citron, key to Notre Dame's offense throughout the season, scored six of the Irish's eight points during the first extra period, affirming her position as one of their chief scorers with 23 points total for the game.
It was NC State's second overtime period where they really shined, launching on a decisive 10-0 run. Saniya Rivers managed to find Trygger for the go-ahead high-low finish. This was soon followed by Brooks hitting a floater and James’ dazzling transition layup, bringing the score to 98-92. Notre Dame managed only one basket during the second overtime, demonstrating the Wolfpack's tenacity on defense.
The Wolfpack's shooting percentage was impressive at 45.6%, with their free-throw shooting continuing to be superb at 92.3%. They also accumulated 24 points off free throws, showcasing their ability to draw fouls and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Alongside Brooks, James contributed 20 points including two three-pointers, and Trygger marked her efforts with 19 points—matching her season high and dominating the paint effectively.
On the other side, Notre Dame relied heavily on its trio of standout players, including Hidalgo, who led with 26 points, along with Olivia Miles contributing 22. Their performance, though impressive, fell short as the Wolfpack’s defense and offensive execution overwhelmed them when it mattered most.
The defeat came as Notre Dame had been riding high, having averaged 28.1 points in their previous games during their winning streak. Now, NC State's victory not only disrupts the Irish’s plans for the ACC regular season title but also makes clear NC State's position as formidable contenders heading toward March Madness.
This landmark win was NC State's first over a ranked No. 1 team at home since 1978. With their fourth victory over ranked teams this month alone, the Wolfpack stands poised for success as they enter the ACC tournament. The result may also reshape regional and national rankings as the stormy NCAA women's basketball season heats up, unleashing excitement for fans everywhere.
Both teams are set to return to action soon, with Notre Dame hosting Florida State and NC State playing their home finale against Wake Forest. This matchup has surely stirred the waters of NCAA women’s basketball, leaving fans eager for what’s next and anticipating potential upsets.
A day to be remembered for NC State women’s basketball, as they celebrated not just the victory but their growth as elite competitors standing tall among the best.