Preview: UNC Asheville Bulldogs at North Carolina State Wolfpack RALEIGH, N.C. (Interstat) — The North Carolina State Wolfpack look to rebound from a tough road loss when they host the UNC Asheville Bulldogs in a nonconference men’s basketball game Saturday at Lenovo Center. The Wolfpack (5-3) are coming off a 73-83 defeat at Auburn on Wednesday. Guard Quadir Copeland has emerged as a dynamic offensive force for NC State, averaging 22.5 points over his last two games against high-major competition, including a 28-point effort in a narrow loss at Texas. “We’ve shown we can score with anyone,” NC State coach said. “Now our focus is putting together a complete defensive performance for forty minutes.” UNC Asheville (4-4) arrives with momentum from an 82-77 home victory over UNC Greensboro on Tuesday. The Bulldogs have won two straight, largely behind the play of guard Justin Wright. Over his last five games, Wright is averaging 18.2 points and 3.4 assists, including a 29-point outburst in a season-opening win over Lipscomb. “Justin’s leadership and ability to create shots has been vital for us,” UNC Asheville coach said. “We’ll need that poise in a hostile environment.” The matchup features a contrast in competition levels. NC State’s three losses have come against Auburn, Texas and Seton Hall—all power-conference opponents. UNC Asheville’s defeats include setbacks to Western Carolina and Tennessee State, though they boast a win over a solid Appalachian State team. For the Bulldogs, containing Copeland will be a primary challenge, while NC State must account for Wright’s scoring versatility. Bulldogs forwards DJ Patrick and Toyaz Solomon, who combined for 39 points against UNC Greensboro, provide additional offensive threats. The Wolfpack have dominated at home this season, winning by an average of 38 points in three games in Raleigh. UNC Asheville is 0-2 in true road games. This is the first meeting between the programs since 2017. NC State holds a 5-0 all-time series advantage. Following this game, NC State faces a daunting stretch, hosting Liberty before a marquee showdown with Kansas. UNC Asheville returns home to face Miami (Ohio) on Wednesday.