1982-83 NC State Basketball Roster: A Look Back

Hey hoops fans! Today, we're taking a trip down memory lane to revisit the 1982-83 North Carolina State Wolfpack basketball roster. This was a squad that brought a ton of excitement to Raleigh, and even though they didn't hoist the national championship trophy that year, their impact on NC State basketball is undeniable. Let's dive deep into the guys who wore the Wolfpack colors during that memorable season, exploring their stats, their roles, and what made them special. We'll also touch upon the coaching staff that guided them and the overall season outlook. So grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's talk some classic college hoops!

The Starting Five: Pillars of the 1982-83 Wolfpack

The 1982-83 NC State Wolfpack basketball roster was built on a foundation of strong individual talent, and nowhere was this more evident than in their starting lineup. These guys were the engine that drove the team, consistently putting up big numbers and setting the tone for every game. Leading the charge was the incomparable Thurl Bailey. A 6'11" forward/center, Bailey was a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the court. His athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive presence made him a nightmare for opposing teams. He averaged 17.1 points and 8.1 rebounds per game during the 1982-83 season, showcasing his all-around game. Bailey's leadership was crucial, as he often shouldered the scoring load and provided a steadying influence. His smooth offensive game, coupled with his ability to block shots and grab boards, made him a perennial All-ACC candidate and a fan favorite. The impact of a player like Bailey cannot be overstated; he was the go-to guy when the Wolfpack needed a bucket or a key defensive stop. His presence alone could alter an opponent's game plan, forcing them to dedicate extra defenders or adjust their offensive strategy.

Alongside Bailey in the frontcourt was Lorenzo Charles, another dominant big man. Standing at 6'9", Charles brought a different kind of physicality to the paint. He was known for his powerful dunks and relentless rebounding. While his scoring might not have matched Bailey's in terms of volume, Charles was incredibly efficient and a crucial part of the Wolfpack's interior scoring attack. He chipped in 12.0 points and 6.5 rebounds per contest. Charles's ability to finish through contact and his tenacious rebounding style added another dimension to NC State's offensive and defensive schemes. He was the type of player who could change the momentum of a game with a thunderous slam or a crucial defensive rebound. The synergy between Bailey and Charles in the paint was a major reason for the Wolfpack's success. They complemented each other's skill sets perfectly, creating a formidable duo that few teams could match. The sheer athleticism and power they brought to the court made them a highlight reel waiting to happen. It wasn't just about scoring; it was about the energy and intensity they brought every single possession. They were the anchors, providing stability and a constant threat in the painted area, making it incredibly difficult for opponents to penetrate the lane.

In the backcourt, the Wolfpack boasted the dynamic duo of Chris Corchiani and Sidney Lowe. Corchiani, a smooth point guard, was the primary ball-handler and facilitator. His court vision and passing ability were exceptional, setting up his teammates for easy baskets. He averaged 13.5 points and 7.5 assists per game. Corchiani's leadership from the point guard position was vital, as he dictated the tempo of the game and made smart decisions under pressure. His ability to run the offense efficiently, coupled with his reliable jump shot, made him a complete package. He wasn't just a passer; he could also knock down shots when needed, forcing defenses to respect his scoring threat. The chemistry he developed with his teammates, particularly Lowe, was palpable on the court. They understood each other's movements and tendencies, leading to seamless offensive execution. His poise and control of the game were critical, especially in close contests where every possession mattered. He was the quarterback of the offense, making all the right reads and ensuring the ball moved with purpose.

Sidney Lowe, a lightning-quick guard, provided an explosive scoring punch and tenacious defense. Lowe was known for his ability to penetrate the lane, finish creatively, and play suffocating on-ball defense. He averaged 15.0 points and 3.5 assists per game. Lowe's speed and agility made him a difficult matchup for opposing guards, and his defensive intensity often disrupted the opponent's offensive flow. He was the spark plug, capable of igniting the offense with his scoring bursts and aggressive play. The combination of Corchiani's playmaking and Lowe's scoring prowess created a potent backcourt that could score from anywhere on the floor and create opportunities for others. Their contrasting styles, yet incredible synergy, made them one of the most exciting guard pairings in the ACC. They could play off each other, with Corchiani setting up Lowe for open looks or Lowe creating space for Corchiani's jumper. This dynamic backcourt was instrumental in the Wolfpack's ability to push the tempo and score in transition.

Rounding out the starting five was Derrick McQueen, a versatile forward who could play both inside and out. McQueen provided valuable scoring, rebounding, and defensive contributions. He averaged 9.0 points and 5.0 rebounds. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and also contribute on the boards made him a difficult matchup for opposing forwards. McQueen's all-around game was essential for the Wolfpack's balanced attack, providing a solid option on the wing that could contribute in multiple ways. He was the glue guy, doing a little bit of everything to help the team succeed. His presence in the starting lineup added versatility and depth, making the Wolfpack a more unpredictable and dangerous opponent. He could guard multiple positions and was a key player in the team's defensive schemes, often tasked with guarding the opponent's best perimeter scorer. His offensive contributions were also significant, as he provided a reliable scoring option that opened up opportunities for others. The starting five of Bailey, Charles, Corchiani, Lowe, and McQueen represented a formidable unit, blending size, skill, and athleticism to create a team that could compete with the best in the nation. Their collective talent and chemistry were the driving force behind the Wolfpack's successful season.

Key Bench Contributors: Depth and Impact

While the starters often stole the headlines, the 1982-83 NC State Wolfpack basketball roster also benefited immensely from a strong group of players coming off the bench. These guys provided crucial minutes, energy, and scoring, ensuring that the Wolfpack maintained their intensity even when the starters needed a breather. Without their contributions, the team's overall success would have been significantly hampered. Depth is a hallmark of any great team, and NC State certainly had it during this era. These reserves weren't just warming the pine; they were vital cogs in the Wolfpack machine, stepping up in critical moments and contributing to the team's winning efforts. Their ability to maintain the high level of play when called upon was a testament to their skill, conditioning, and understanding of the team's strategy.

One of the most important players off the bench was Anthony Webb. Webb, a speedy guard, provided a valuable change of pace and scoring spark. He was known for his quickness and ability to drive to the basket, often creating scoring opportunities for himself and others. His contributions, though perhaps not as statistically gaudy as the starters, were vital in maintaining offensive pressure and tiring out opposing guards. Webb's role was to come in and inject immediate energy, often forcing turnovers with his aggressive defense and pushing the tempo in transition. He was a nightmare for defenses to keep up with, especially late in games when fatigue set in. His fearless attacking style and ability to finish at the rim, often through contact, made him a crucial offensive weapon. He provided a different look than the primary guards, forcing opponents to adjust their defensive strategies. His ability to play both point guard and shooting guard also gave the coaching staff valuable flexibility. Webb represented the kind of depth that allowed NC State to play its up-tempo style consistently throughout the game. He was a vital part of the team's rotation, ensuring that the pressure on the opponent never let up.

Another significant contributor from the bench was Quinton "Q" Moore. Moore, a forward, offered a different skillset than the starting big men. He was a solid rebounder and a capable scorer in the post. His ability to provide relief minutes for Bailey and Charles was essential, allowing the starters to stay fresh for crucial stretches of the game. Moore's presence in the paint gave the Wolfpack a reliable option to score near the basket and battle for rebounds. He was a reliable contributor who understood his role and executed it effectively. Moore was a tough player who wasn't afraid to mix it up inside, providing a physical presence that complemented the finesse of some of the other players. His minutes were often crucial in establishing an inside presence and controlling the paint, especially during foul trouble for the starters. He provided a steady hand and a reliable option when the team needed a solid defensive effort or a bucket in the paint. His ability to step in and contribute without a significant drop-off in performance was a testament to his dedication and understanding of the team's system.

Forward Dante Jones also provided valuable minutes off the bench. Jones was a versatile player who could contribute in various ways, including scoring and rebounding. His energy and hustle were always evident on the court, making him a valuable asset when the team needed a boost. Jones's ability to play multiple positions added to the team's flexibility and allowed the coaching staff to experiment with different lineups. He was a player who played with his hair on fire, always giving 110% effort. Whether it was diving for loose balls, battling for rebounds, or making smart cuts to the basket, Jones's hustle was infectious. He brought a level of grit and determination that elevated the play of his teammates. His offensive game was developing, but his defensive intensity and rebounding prowess made him a valuable contributor. Jones was the type of player who made the