League: NCAAM Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Breaking News

Michael Malone discusses UNC-NC State basketball rivalry ahead of matchup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 1:11 PM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Michael Malone discusses UNC-NC State basketball rivalry ahead of matchup

Summary

Michael Malone, the new head coach of UNC's men's basketball team, addressed the rivalry with NC State during a recent press event. The teams will meet in a non-conference game on December 15 in Greensboro, marking their first matchup after a 2025-26 season that saw NC State defeat UNC 82-58. Malone emphasized the significance of the rivalry, which dates back to 1919, noting it differs from the rivalries he encountered in the NBA. Both teams faced disappointing exits in the NCAA Tournament last season, with North Carolina losing to VCU and NC State falling to Texas. This December's game will allow UNC to seek revenge for their earlier loss to the Wolfpack.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Michael Malone took over as UNC's head coach this season.
•First meeting since NC State's 82-58 victory in February.
•The UNC-NC State rivalry is over 100 years old.
•UNC and NC State will face off on December 15.
•Both teams exited the NCAA Tournament in the first round.

Latest Updates

1:11 PMYahoo Sports — Michael Malone talks the UNC-NC State men's basketball rivalry

What they're saying

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Michael Malone will take over as UNC's head men's basketball coach this season. The longtime NBA boss is surprised by the big rivalry with NC State.
— Yahoo Sports

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