My brother-in-law is a big basketball fan, and when he came to stay with us for a couple of nights, all he wanted was to see a college game. Unfortunately the UNC versus Duke game was sold out, but he was more than happy to see NC State play Miami up in Raleigh.
For the 2 days prior I had been ill with an indigestion and migraine problem, and it wasn't until 11am (an hour before we left) that I felt OK enough to drive the two and a half hours north. Not a lot of traffic on the way up and we pulled a miraculous spot just outside the PNC Arena, and walked into the arena as the national anthem was being played.
NC State started strong, and from high up in the stadium, it looked like we were in for a treat. The day was Armed Services Appreciation Day, so many local NC State Alumni were paraded on the court during the many time outs. Nice touch, which had us getting out of our seats regularly for a standing ovation. NC State powered to a 9 point lead at half time (45-36), and looked set to take the points in this one.
However someone put a rocket up the Hurricanes at half time. They were a different, now determined team, that NC State had no answer to. Miami totally killed it, while NC State looked like a shadow of their first half selves. In the end the 5 point margin to the Hurricanes made it seem closer than what it was. A lot of disappointed people leaving the PNC Arena tonight.
Was surprised by the number of empty seats in the lower level of the stadium. While crowd was officially 17,567, I think that may be tickets sold, as well as season ticket holders who hadn't bothered to show. We were on the top deck, right in line with the basket where the NC State students sat. I liked being higher up, was a great view of all the action.
On the way home we stopped about halfway back to eat at Lexington Barbecue. This 55 year old BBQ institution, was recommended by my father-in-law, who during his working years would go out of his way to eat here. Food was great, and the atmosphere very southern. Good stop before we had to make the last hour home.
Miami Hurricanes 84 (D. Reed 26, A. Lawrence Jr 19, E. Inzundu 16) defeated NC State Wolfpack 79 (D. Smith Jr 31, T. Henderson 21, O. Yurtseven 10)
Crowd: 17, 567
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