NC State’s victory brings Raleigh to life

The North Carolina State University faithful had a lot to celebrate on Sunday night as both the men’s and women’s basketball teams secured their spots in the Final Four with thrilling victories in the Elite Eight.

The last time the men’s team made it to the Final Four was all the way back in 1983, but this year they managed to overcome Duke in a nail-biting game to punch their ticket to Phoenix, Arizona for a shot at the national championship. The excitement was palpable as students, alumni, and fans rushed to the Bell Tower to partake in the post-game celebration, with the iconic monument bathed in red light to mark the occasion.

For Gus Gusler, owner of the Players’ Retreat and a diehard N.C. State fan, this moment was a long time coming. Having waited 41 years since the last Final Four appearance under Jimmy Valvano, Gusler expressed his joy at seeing the Wolfpack back on the big stage. He even joked that the purchase of the bar 18 years ago was finally justified by this historic moment.

Looking ahead to the Final Four, Gusler has big plans to enhance the viewing experience for the entire Raleigh community. He has requested the city to shut down Oberlin Street and set up a massive projector screen so that everyone can come together to cheer on the Wolfpack in their quest for a national title.

As the excitement continues to build, the North Carolina State University faithful are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an unforgettable Final Four showdown for both the men’s and women’s teams.