ACC Basketball: Duke clear ahead, Pitt dead last in latest power rankings

The Wolfpack had devasting news to open the season, as starting center and potential Defensive Player of the Year Manny Bates had to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery. His absence left a gaping hole in the frontcourt, with 6’11 sophomore Ebenezer Dowuona having to take his place. He hasn’t provided much offense or rebounding but has been a solid shot-blocker, with 19 in six games so far.

What has helped NC State start off stronger than expected is the explosive breakout of sophomore Dereon Seabron. He averaged 5.0 ppg as a freshman and started eight games last season and showed promise.

But nobody saw the current averages of 21.7 ppg and 10.9 rpg atter seven games, including the career-defining performance against Nebraska, going for 39 points and 19 rebounds in four overtimes. His athleticism and versatility as a 6’7 combo forward has allowed the Wolfpack to play all over the court and excel and is currently the favorite to win ACC Player of the Year.

The supporting cast has been strong as well, including 15 ppg scoring senior Jericole Hellems, as well as double-digit starting guards Cam Hayes and Casey Morsell. This isn’t the deepest team and defensively has issues with Bates gone and unless Seabron goes for 15 and 10 every night, could fall down the pecking order of the ACC. But until then, NC State deserves a spot in the top-5.