In a women's basketball showcase that kept 13,000 fans breathless, No. 13 NC State toppled No. 1 Notre Dame 104-95 in a historic double-overtime battle Sunday. The clash featured 21 ties, 21 lead changes, and viral moments that drew real-time praise from NBA legend Magic Johnson on social media.
This has been the best women's college basketball game this season!Johnson tweeted during the game's climax. The Hall of Famer wasn't alone – ESPN's College GameDay crew witnessed Aziaha James' behind-the-back layup and Sonia Citron's game-tying three-pointer that forced overtime.
We were excited to have this platform,Notre Dame coach Niele Ivey said. Bringing attention to the women's game and the ACC is always positive.
Three critical elements fueled this NC State basketball milestone:
- Zoe Brooks' career-high 33 points against All-American guard Hannah Hidalgo
- Saniya Rivers' near-triple-double (14 points, 12 rebounds, 9 assists)
- Aziaha James' 20-point performance capped by her viral second-OT highlight
The Wolfpack's victory marked their first home win against a No. 1 team since 1978, while Notre Dame missed clinching the ACC regular-season title outright. Players acknowledged the cultural significance post-game, with Rivers noting: People are getting more involved...the game's evolving.
With seven WNBA scouts in attendance and record campus engagement – including overnight fan campouts – this contest proved women's basketball can thrive without relying solely on established stars. As NC State fans stormed the court then flooded the Memorial Belltower, the sport's future shone brighter than ever.
