NC State center DJ Burns Jr. bounded onto the court with an infectious smile, leading the Wolfpack into warmups before their clash against Duke in the Elite Eight. Hours later, he exited the game with the same grin, having left a memorable mark on the court.
His and-one play had placed Duke in a precarious position. Between his pregame exuberance and the final buzzer, Burns orchestrated a March Madness masterpiece, propelling the No. 11 seed NC State to a resounding 76-64 victory and their first Final Four appearance since 1983.
Burns dominated the court, tallying 29 points on 13-of-19 shooting, alongside three assists and four rebounds. As the game progressed, his imposing presence became increasingly challenging for Duke to contain. With each remarkable shot, Burns exuded confidence, eventually amassing 21 points in the second half alone.
NC State coach Kevin Keatts credited Burns’ inside presence as a crucial advantage, emphasizing his exceptional performance against Duke’s defense. Burns’ impact was evident from the outset, setting the tone with an early mid-range basket and continuing to assert his dominance throughout the game.
Despite the high stakes, Burns approached the game with his characteristic joy and enthusiasm, reflecting his upbringing in a positive environment. Even amidst the intensity of March Madness, he remained composed and focused on enjoying the moment.
NC State’s remarkable journey to the Final Four, culminating in their victory over Duke, is a testament to their resilience and determination. Burns, with his remarkable contributions on and off the court, epitomizes the spirit of sportsmanship and excellence.
Reflecting on his transformative journey, Burns acknowledges the profound impact of his time at NC State. Supported by his teammates and coaches, he found a sense of belonging and purpose, propelling him to new heights in his collegiate career.
The team’s improbable success, from a near-elimination in the ACC Tournament to a triumphant Final Four berth, defies explanation. Yet, for Burns and his father, it carries a deeper significance—a testament to faith and resilience in the face of adversity.
As NC State celebrates its victory and looks ahead to the Final Four, Burns stands as a symbol of their unwavering determination and belief. In the midst of uncertainty, he embodies the spirit of possibility, inspiring his team to defy expectations and embrace the journey ahead.
