Seton Hall looks to stay perfect against No. 25 NC State in an unbeaten matchup at the 2025 Maui Invitational on Nov. 24. The Pirates bring a 5-0 record out to Hawaii. Meanwhile, NC State brings their 4-0 mark into the tournament. This battle of unbeatens kicks off at 2:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2 from the Lahaina Civic Center. Thing is, both teams are peaking at exactly the right moment.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Seton Hall Pirates bring a 5-0 record into the tournament
- NC State Wolfpack enter at 4-0 with No. 25 ranking
- Matchup begins Monday, Nov. 24 at 2:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2
- The winner advances to face the USC/Boise State winner in the semifinals
- NC State squeaked past VCU 85-79 in their toughest test yet
Battle of the Unbeatens Erupts in Maui
Here’s what makes this first-round showdown so special. Both squads are undefeated heading into one of college basketball’s premier early-season tournaments. Seton Hall has been dominant in the Big East, while NC State just cracked the AP Top 25 poll after impressive non-conference wins.
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The Pirates survived a program-record 42 points from Fordham’s Alexis Black in a double-overtime thriller. So they know how to win close games. NC State barely escaped VCU last Monday in their toughest test. Both teams are battle-tested. Plus, both bring serious offensive firepower and defensive intensity.
According to various sports analysts, NC State enters as favorites with a -10.5 point spread. The total is set at 143.5 points. But undefeated teams often play with extra confidence. Seton Hall could surprise a lot of people if they execute their game plan.
Key Statistical Matchup: Scoring vs Defense
| Stat | Seton Hall | NC State |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 5-0 | 4-0 |
| Conference | Big East | ACC |
| Tournament Ranking | Unranked | No. 25 AP / No. 22 Coaches |
| Points Per Game | TBA | 100.8 |
| Points Allowed Per Game | TBA | 69.8 |
| Latest Victory | Double-OT vs Fordham | 85-79 vs VCU |
NC State holds a major advantage with their elite scoring average of 100.8 points per game. Plus they’re shutting down opponents at 69.8 PPG. That defense ranks 124th nationally, which isn’t terrible but can improve. Seton Hall proved gritty in that double-overtime win. Their ability to win tight games could offset talent disparities.
What Experts Are Watching For
Head coach Will Wade brings NC State to their Maui Invitational debut just weeks into his tenure. Wade arrives fresh off back-to-back titles in the Southland Conference plus a tournament upset of Clemson. His team plays with intensity and structure.
Meanwhile, Seton Hall head coach Shaheen Holloway leads a retooled Big East squad hoping to surprise. The Pirates haven’t been ranked for a while. But starting 5-0 changes that conversation fast. Here’s the deal: whoever controls the tempo and limits turnovers likely wins.
- Bench production will be crucial in Hawaii’s early-season tournament
- Three-point shooting could determine the outcome on a neutral court
- Rebounding battle matters since both teams love breaking fast
- Foul trouble on either side could swing momentum instantly
- Watch for NC State’s ability to push pace and score early
Can Seton Hall Pull the Maui Upset?
This matchup gets interesting because NC State hasn’t faced major tournament pressure yet. Seton Hall comes from a power conference battle-tested. But NC State simply has more firepower on paper.
According to oddsmakers, NC State enters favored by double digits. Still, sports is weird. Undefeated teams feed off confidence. Plus, Seton Hall‘s double-overtime win showed character. They could absolutely compete in Maui. Will Seton Hall keep the dream alive?
Get the official preview from Will Wade and NC State:
Watch the Field of 68 break down tournament expectations:
Sources
- ESPN – Live score and game information
- CBS Sports – Battle of unbeatens analysis
- NCAA.com – Maui Invitational bracket and schedule
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.