1982 NC State Basketball: Roster & Championship Run

The 1982 North Carolina State Wolfpack basketball team is legendary. Guys, we're talking about a squad that defied all expectations and etched their names into college basketball history with one of the most improbable championship runs ever! Let's dive deep into the roster of this iconic team and relive the magic.

The Coaching Genius: Jim Valvano

Before we get into the players, we gotta talk about the mastermind behind it all: Jim Valvano, affectionately known as Jimmy V. His energy was infectious, his passion was undeniable, and his coaching style was, well, let's just say unique. Valvano instilled a belief in his players that they could beat anyone, no matter the odds. He was more than just a coach; he was a motivator, a friend, and a father figure to many of those young men. His ability to connect with his players on a personal level translated into incredible chemistry on the court. He fostered a culture of resilience and never-say-die attitude that became the hallmark of the '82 Wolfpack. Valvano's genius wasn't just about X's and O's; it was about understanding people, building relationships, and inspiring them to achieve more than they thought possible. His legacy extends far beyond that championship season, reminding us all to never give up and to cherish every moment. And who can forget his famous speech about "Don't give up, don't ever give up"? It's a message that continues to resonate with people from all walks of life. Valvano's impact on college basketball, and on the lives of those he touched, is immeasurable.

The Star Players

• Dereck Whittenburg: A junior guard, Whittenburg was the team's leading scorer and a clutch performer. His long-range shot was a weapon, and he wasn't afraid to take the big shot with the game on the line, even if it sometimes sailed a little too long (more on that later!).

• Thurl Bailey: A sophomore forward, Bailey was a dominant inside presence with a soft touch around the basket. His athleticism and shot-blocking ability made him a force on both ends of the court. He was cool, calm, and collected under pressure. Bailey was also known for his infectious smile and positive attitude, making him a popular figure both on and off the court. Thurl was the kind of player every team needed.

• Sidney Lowe: The steady point guard who kept the team running smoothly. Lowe's leadership and ball-handling skills were crucial to the Wolfpack's success. He was the floor general, the guy who made sure everyone was in the right place at the right time. Lowe's calm demeanor and basketball IQ made him an extension of Valvano on the court. Sidney was like the coach on the court, knowing all the plays like the back of his hand.

The Supporting Cast

While Whittenburg, Bailey, and Lowe were the stars, the 1982 NC State team was far from a three-man show. They had a strong supporting cast of players who all contributed in their own way:

• Lorenzo Charles: The man who would become forever linked to one of the most iconic plays in basketball history. Charles, a junior center, provided valuable minutes off the bench with his rebounding and defense.

• Alvin Battle: A key reserve guard who provided energy and scoring punch.

• Mike Warren: Another valuable role player who contributed on both ends of the court.

• George McClain: Provided depth and experience to the frontcourt.

Each player on that roster had a role to play, and they all embraced it. They weren't the most talented team, but they played with heart, determination, and an unshakeable belief in each other. Their chemistry was undeniable, and that's what made them so dangerous.

The Unforgettable Championship Run

Okay, guys, let's talk about the run. This is where the legend was born. After finishing the regular season with a 21-10 record, the Wolfpack needed to win the ACC Tournament just to make the NCAA Tournament. And that's exactly what they did, pulling off upset after upset to claim the title and earn an automatic bid. In the NCAA Tournament, they continued their improbable run, winning close games against tough opponents. But it was the championship game against the heavily favored Houston Cougars, led by future NBA stars Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, where the magic truly happened. With seconds remaining and the game tied, Whittenburg launched a desperation shot that fell short, but Lorenzo Charles was there to grab the rebound and dunk it home as time expired. The buzzer sounded, the confetti fell, and the NC State Wolfpack were national champions! That play, that moment, is etched in the minds of basketball fans forever. It's a testament to the power of believing, even when the odds are stacked against you. It's a reminder that anything is possible, as long as you never give up. And it's a story that will continue to be told for generations to come.

The Roster:

Here is the complete 1982 NC State Basketball Roster:

Where Are They Now?

Many of the players from the 1982 NC State team went on to have successful careers after college, both in and out of basketball. Thurl Bailey had a long and productive NBA career. Sidney Lowe became a successful coach. Sadly, Jim Valvano passed away in 1993 after a battle with cancer, but his legacy lives on through the V Foundation for Cancer Research. Lorenzo Charles tragically passed away in a car accident in 2011. While time has passed, the bond between the members of that team remains strong. They are forever connected by their shared experience and their improbable championship run.

The Legacy of the 1982 Wolfpack

The 1982 NC State Wolfpack team wasn't just a basketball team; they were a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of believing in yourself. Their story continues to inspire people to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. They showed us that with hard work, determination, and a little bit of luck, anything is possible. And who knows, maybe one day we'll see another team pull off a similar miracle. But one thing is for sure: the 1982 NC State Wolfpack will always hold a special place in the hearts of college basketball fans everywhere. They were the underdogs who dared to dream, and they showed the world that anything is possible. It was a magical season, a magical team, and a magical moment in college basketball history. And it all started with a group of players who believed in each other and a coach who believed in them. So, here's to the 1982 NC State Wolfpack: thanks for the memories!