Paul McNeil Jr. Scores 47, Sets 3-Point Record in NC State Win

UPDATE: In a stunning performance, Paul McNeil Jr. scored a career-high 47 points and set a program record with 11 three-pointers as North Carolina State crushed Texas Southern 108-72 in Raleigh, N.C. on December 17, 2025. This remarkable display comes just days after N.C. State’s narrow overtime loss to No. 19 Kansas.

McNeil’s record-breaking moment arrived with 3:34 left in the game when he hit his tenth three-pointer, capping off a night where he shot an impressive 12-of-18 from the field, including 11-of-17 from beyond the arc, and made all 12 of his free-throw attempts. His previous best was just 27 points in a victory over UNC Greensboro earlier this season.

N.C. State dominated from the start, building a massive halftime lead of 51-28. The Wolfpack’s offense was firing on all cylinders, shooting 51% (34-of-57) from the floor and hitting 17 of their 40 attempts from three-point range. McNeil also contributed 10 rebounds to complete his double-double.

Sharing the spotlight, Jerry Deng added 14 points with four three-pointers, while Quadir Copeland facilitated with nine assists. The Wolfpack bounced back decisively after their recent loss, improving their record to 8-4.

For Texas Southern, Zaire Hayes led the scoring with 16 points, while Troy Hupstead contributed 11 points and nine rebounds. Despite the loss, Texas Southern will look to regroup as they prepare to host Abilene Christian on Monday.

This game marked N.C. State’s annual Heritage Game at the historic Reynolds Coliseum, their home from 1949-1999. The Wolfpack have an impressive record of 27-2 at Reynolds Coliseum since the 1999-2000 season.

Looking ahead, N.C. State will face Mississippi this Sunday in Greensboro, North Carolina, as they aim to build on this dominating performance. Fans are eager to see if McNeil can maintain this exceptional form moving forward.