NC State just won a battle that changes their entire season outlook. A judge granted Ven-Allen Lubin a fifth year of eligibility, giving the Wolfpack a massive boost. This ruling came down on Saturday, turning a roster that was already decent into one that could actually contend. New head coach Justin Gainey needed help in the frontcourt, and now he’s got it in spades. The team doesn’t need to scramble for options anymore because the answer is already on the roster.
A Veteran Presence in the Paint
Lubin brings size and experience that young teams simply can’t fake. Per Duke Basketball Report, the 6-foot-9, 250-pound forward is a huge asset who has matured nicely during his time in Raleigh. He averaged 13.6 points and 7.1 rebounds last season while shooting an impressive 66.8% from the floor. Those numbers show he can score efficiently without needing to dominate the ball. His return means the team can finally stop playing him strictly as a center, a role that limited his effectiveness before.
That’s the difference.
Why This Ruling Shifts the Rankings
This decision forces everyone to rethink how they view the Wolfpack heading into 2026-27. According to Duke Basketball Report, the team now secures a veteran for one more year to bolster frontcourt depth. If someone else can share the center duties, the chemistry should remain intact while the overall talent level rises. A team with a player who knows the system and has grown physically is always harder to beat. The potential for this squad to climb the rankings is real and immediate.
How many teams have that kind of upside?
The Road Ahead for the Wolfpack
Gainey has built a solid foundation, but adding a player of Lubin’s caliber is the final piece. The judge’s order ensures Lubin is eligible next season regardless of what happens with the Colorado case.
