RALEIGH, N.C. -- As NC State basketball enters ACC play, the Wolfpack finds themselves in a solid position with a 9-3 record. The team has shown glimpses of potential but also areas that need improvement as they aim for success in the coming months leading up to March.

One standout player for the Wolfpack has been DJ Horne. With the departure of key players, Horne has stepped up as the leading scorer, averaging 18.8 points and 3.5 assists per game during the month of December. He has been a reliable shooter, leading the team in three-point shooting and free throw percentage. Horne's contributions have been instrumental in the team's success thus far.

Another consistent force for NC State has been DJ Burns, who has shown his prowess on the offensive end of the floor. Averaging 13.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, Burns has been a reliable option inside the paint. Although his defensive skills still need improvement, his scoring ability compensates for it. With support from players like Ben Middlebrooks and a healthy Mohamed Diarra, the Wolfpack's frontcourt can become a formidable strength.

The addition of newcomers Dennis Parker Jr., MJ Rice, and Kam Woods has injected potential into the team. Rice, despite a slow start, has shown glimpses of his athleticism and impact. Parker Jr. has demonstrated consistency in his performances, including a double-double against UT-Martin. Woods, though still finding his footing, has shown promise with steals leading to transition baskets. The chemistry among these new additions is still developing, but their potential could push the Wolfpack to new heights.

However, inconsistency has plagued the team this season. Players like Michael O'Connell, Jayden Taylor, and Casey Morsell have had standout moments but have struggled to find consistency in their shooting. For the Wolfpack to make a push in the ACC and secure a spot in March Madness, the team must find more cohesiveness and solidify lineups based on their strengths. Morsell and Taylor, two key scoring threats, need to find their rhythm simultaneously to bolster the team's offensive output.

One major setback for NC State has been the injury to Mohamed Diarra. Prior to his ankle injury, Diarra was a dominant force on the boards, nearly averaging a double-double. His absence has affected the team's rebounding performance, which currently ranks at 235th in the country. NC State will need Diarra fully healthy in order to strengthen their rebounding efforts during ACC play.

As the Wolfpack enters the second half of the season, there is both promise and room for improvement. The team's reliance on Horne's scoring, the consistency of Burns, and the potential contributions from new players are positive signs for success. However, the team must address issues of inconsistency and the need for a healthy Diarra. With hard work and adjustments, NC State basketball has the potential to make a strong run in the ACC and secure a spot in March Madness.