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Help Prospective Students Navigate Campus

Applications for admission to NC State are higher than ever, and that means more prospective students are visiting campus every day. Learn how you can help them connect with campus tours and information sessions.

NC State is a big place. And with so many prospective students — and their families — checking out NC State these days, it’s not surprising that some get lost.

So, if you encounter a would-be Wolfpack student wandering campus, be sure to set them in the right direction. The friendly people in Undergraduate Admissions are strategically stationed to help students with on-campus tours, self-guided tours, virtual tours, college-specific sessions and special topic sessions.

But it’s important to remember that none of those services are provided in their offices in Peele Hall. Think of the folks in Peele Hall like the wizard behind the curtain, pulling the administrative levers that keep the admissions machine running smoothly.

The face-to-face work happens in public spaces in the Talley Student Union and the Joyner Visitors Center . Here’s a summary of the services and where prospective students can find them.

Information Session and Tour Prospective first-year and transfer students who have not yet applied to NC State are invited to attend an on-campus admissions information session and student-led campus tour. Campus visits are offered Monday through Friday starting at Talley Student Union.

Self-Guided Campus Tour Prospective students who stop by campus during the week and are not registered for a campus tour can visit the Talley Student Union or Joyner Visitor Center to pick up information about a self-guided tour.

Prospective students visiting campus on a weekend or university holiday can stop by the Talley Student Union or Joyner Visitor Center to pick up a self-guided tour map.

Self-guided campus tours are accompanied by a video playlist featuring current students. The video playlist and self-guided tour highlight our well-known student spaces on NC State’s main campus, including the Talley Student Union, Wellness and Recreation and the D.H. Hill Jr. Library.

On-Campus and Virtual Information Sessions Admissions offers a variety of on-campus and virtual options to help students gain a sense of what it means to live and learn at NC State. Follow the links for registration information:

• First-Year Information Session
• Transfer Information Session
• International Information Session

Learn more about these and other visitor options online at Undergraduate Admissions .

• Joyner Visitor Center
• talley student union

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You have several options for connecting with our college and experiencing the place you'll call home.

Virtual Information Sessions

College info sessions for prospective students.

Are you a prospective first-year, transfer or international student? Register for a virtual session with our college to get information tailored to your interests.

• February 29, 4-5 p.m.
• March 13, 3-4 p.m.
• March 26, 4-5 p.m.
• April 9, 3-4 p.m.
• April 25, 4-5 p.m.

One-on-One College Info Session

If prospective first-year or transfer students are unable to attend scheduled college/admissions information sessions, they can schedule a one-on-one meeting with the college’s director of student recruitment and retention, Dara Leeder.

Specific availability differs by week. Email Dara to request a virtual appointment, indicating your preferred days/times. Please note that we are unable to accommodate same-day meeting requests.

Spend-a-Day

Prospective first-year and transfer students — come for a personalized visit tailored for you. Tour the NC State campus and explore the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

You’ll meet students, faculty and administrators, attend a class and get answers to your questions about NC State and our college.

take a virtual tour

Main Campus

Take the tour. 

Centennial Campus

NC State Housing

Our college’s administrative offices and academic departments are located in the north area of campus . Our spaces include: 

• Dean’s Office
• Public and International Affairs
• Development Office
• Communication
• Philosophy and Religious Studies
• World Languages and Cultures
• Interdisciplinary Studies
• Social Work
• Sociology and Anthropology

Paid hourly visitor parking is available nearby in the following parking decks:

• Coliseum deck: 201 Jensen Drive; Raleigh, NC 27601. 
• Dan Allen deck: 110 Dan Allen Drive, Raleigh NC 27606.

NC State University Campus Tour (Where to Eat, Drink, Play & Stay)

Thinking about attending NC State University in Raleigh and planning a campus visit? The below guide is for you. I first moved to Raleigh in 2004 and know this city well, and I’m about to undertake college campus visits with my own daughter who will be a senior in high school this year! 

This guide is not about how to do an actual campus tour of NC State (get that info here ). But when you visit the city of Raleigh and are contemplating calling it home for 4 years, I’m guessing you want to know what there is to do near NC State during your tour, including where to eat, drink, play, stay

You may only have a short period of time to explore the campus, so I’ve done all the other planning for you. With my local knowledge and anticipating what I’d like to know about a college area in a new city for my daughter, I’ve narrowed down the choices of restaurants, attractions, activities, bars, and hotels, all within walking distance or a short drive to NCSU. 

North Carolina State University is located just minutes from downtown Raleigh , and about halfway down the East Coast of the USA. It consists of Main Campus (North & Central) which is boarded by Hillsborough Street and Western Boulevard. Main campus is where students spend the majority of their time.

Centennial Campus , is just a few minutes away on the wolfline (NC State’s bus system) and known as research campus and home to the College of Engineering and Wilson College of Textiles. And, Centennial Biomedical Campus is home of the College of Veterinary Medicine.

While Raleigh might be the state capital, this is far from a sleepy city and all about government – it’s one of the fastest-growing cities in America!

The Raleigh area is a thriving hub for tech and culture, a bustling arts and culinary scene, top-class museums, endless greenway trails, and several top colleges. Duke University is 30-minutes away, and the University of North Carolina-UNC at Chapel Hill is 40 minutes. 

Raleigh is nationally recognized as a top destination for both students and young professionals, with Research Triangle Park (RTP) , a renowned destination for high-technology enterprise. just minutes away. 

Top companies in the region include SAS Institute, IBM, Cisco Systems, Biogen and GlaxoSmithKline, and they lead the way in hiring new NC State graduates. And 70+ major companies, agencies and nonprofits are located on Centennial Campus, offering internships and on-the-job experiences!

Things To Do Near NC State University

You might be thinking, what is there to do in Raleigh near NC State University for students and what is the city like? 

If you’re in town for a couple of days to check out the university and don’t have a lot of time to explore the city, then below are the most unmissable and popular attractions near NC State in Raleigh that you should visit after your campus tour. 

Main campus is centered around Hillsborough Street , one of the main corridors of Raleigh and a diverse collection of people and places. Home to restaurants, coffee shops and tea houses, as well as theatres, museums and more, you’ll find your favorite places to live life just off campus.

Catch a Game at NC State

Raleigh has a huge college sports scene, and if you’re thinking of visiting NC State University for college football or basketball or athletics, then you’re picking a great university.

While you’re in town for an NC State campus tour, why not take time to catch a game? During Spring you can cheer on the Wolfpack in a few sports. The NC State men’s baseball team plays at Doak Field, and the women’s softball teams play at Dail Softball Stadium.

If tennis is more your thing, catch the NC State Women’s tennis at the J.W. Isenhour Tennis Center, or cheer on the distance runners and sprinters of the NC State Track & Field team , who have home events throughout the year. The men’s and women’s golf tournaments are also in action throughout Spring, too!

Raleigh is also home to the men’s United Soccer League team, North Carolina FC , and the women’s soccer team, NC Courage , who both play through the Spring! And the Durham Bulls baseball are 30-minutes away!

Walk the 3 Mile Loop of Lake Johnson 

Raleigh is known as the City of Oaks, which gives you a hint as to how green it is. You will find an abundance of places where you can get out in nature and find peace and solitude, which will come in handy during stressful exam periods.

One of our favorite nature spots in Raleigh is Lake Johnson , which is just 2-miles from NC State University’s Centennial Campus, meaning a short 5-minute drive after your NC Campus tour.

Because it’s only a 3-mile, easy loop trail that’s entirely paved, it makes for the perfect walk to do near the campus when you need a bit of headspace. 

Lake Johnson itself is beautiful and is one of the few lakes in Raleigh where you can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats. It’s one of our favorite spots to go stand-up paddle boarding in Raleigh.

Get Cultured at NC Museum of Art  

Raleigh has a huge art scene, which is evident in its art murals, art galleries, and art museums located throughout the city.

You can get a good feel for Raleigh’s artistic culture at the North Carolina Museum of Art , which is definitely one of the most popular museums in Raleigh . It’s a short 6-minute drive from main campus, free to visit, and is full of amazing pieces of art from around the world. 

We love the outdoor 164-acre Museum Sculpture Park, which is free for the public to visit from dawn to dusk and is also the start of the below mentioned Art to Heart Trail.

Bike the Art to Heart Trail  

Another great thing to do in Raleigh on a short visit is this 6-mile biking trail which starts at the NC Museum of Art and ends outside the Performing Arts Center in downtown Raleigh.

Make a pit-stop at Lucky Tree Cafe or Raleigh Brewing , then bike through the main campus of NC State University. It also passes by Pullen Park , another stunning park in Raleigh, and continues past Meredith College. If you’re a keen cyclist, then you might want to read our full guide to biking the Art to Heart Trail .

Pullen Park

Pullen Park dates back to 1887 and happens to be the first public park in North Carolina and is the fifth oldest operating amusement park in the US. Located on  66-acres of land  near NC State University.

It’s a lovely spot to have a picnic or grill out in one of the picnic areas, see a play, or use the sports fields or tennis courts to play your favorite sport.

Lake Raleigh  

Located right on NC State Centennial Campus and somewhat of a hidden gem for Raleighites is Lake Raleigh, another lake we love to visit, especially in the summer .

This is a popular lake to take your stand-up paddleboards or kayaks and enjoy some time on the water.

Dorothea Dix Park  

Raleigh’s green landscape never gets tiresome, and one of the best places to see it is Dorothea Dix Park , which is the largest of the parks in Raleigh. It’s located just 1.5 miles from main campus on Hillsborough St, and 2.2 miles from Centennial campus.

It’s a huge, 300+ acre park with downtown skyline views looming over the oak trees in the distance.

It’s the perfect place to unpack a picnic, throw a football around with some friends, or simply relax on the open meadows with a good book. There’s even a free walking tour on select Saturdays.

Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden 

Just 0.5 miles from main campus on Hillsborough St is the Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden , which is the perfect place to visit on a sunny Spring day when the roses are in bloom.

This is just one of 3 accredited rose gardens in the state and is home to 1,200 roses in 60 different kinds. The best time to see them bloom is late Spring from May until the early days of Fall.

If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the events calendar for the Raleigh Little Theater , located behind the garden, as there are regular festivities happening, from outdoor movie screenings to performing arts performances. It also hosts an annual arts festival, Art in the Garden.

NC Museum of Natural Sciences

Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh which is only1.7 miles from the University, or about a 40-minute walk, is the Museum of Natural Sciences , the most visited museum in North Carolina. 

It has 4 floors of exhibits dedicated to the natural world, from fossils and dinosaur bones to whale skeletons and taxidermy animals.

The museum is very well curated with walk-through dioramas interactive exhibits and 3D movies. If you’re into natural history and museums, this is one to check out.

Umstead State Park 

Umstead State Park is a bit further away from the college campus, but not too far. If you have a car only a 15-minute drive (11.2 miles) from the campus and well worth the effort.

The park is a great place for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and even camping. There are also several man-made lakes where you can go kayaking or bring your stand-up paddleboard.

The park has 5,000 acres of forest to explore, and you’ll be amazed by how quiet and serene it is, yet within a short distance of the University. Some of our favorite trails in the park are:

• Sal’s Branch Trail
• Loblolly Trail
• Company Mill Trail

Explore Glenwood South District

Glenwood South is ever evolving but is traditionally a college student area that’s filled with entertainment offerings for young people. It’s where you’ll find the liveliest bars, music venues, restaurants, pubs, and boutique stores.

If you’re wondering where all the college kids are hanging out, it’s most likely in this area, especially at night on the weekends.

Go for a stroll along Glenwood Sth and see where the energy is pumping from. Keep in mind, it’s a vastly different energy and atmosphere from daytime to nighttime – with daytime being way more chilled!

You can find some of our favorite bars, restaurants, and cafes in this district in our complete guide to visiting Glenwood South District !

More Things To Do As A Student in Raleigh

You might be wondering whether Raleigh has enough entertainment for students to make it somewhere you’d like to live? After all, you’re going to be spending four years of your life here, and you don’t want to be bored, right?

Fortunately, there is always something going on in Raleigh, especially for students and young adults. 

If you have a little more time to explore Raleigh’s top attractions after your NC Campus Tour, then perhaps you’d prefer to check out some of the most popular things to do in Raleigh for students: 

• Tour the  James B. Hunt J. Library – one of the most advanced libraries in the world on NC State’s Centennial Campus and built to reflect the University’s status as a preeminent technological research university.
• Drink craft beers at Raleigh Beer Garden (350+ on tap)
• Test your golf swing at Drive Shack
• Watch an NHL professional hockey game at PNC Arena .
• Play games at Boxcar Bar + Arcade
• Explore the Warehouse District
• Walk or bike one of the top 25 trails in Raleigh

Most colleges want you to have your submissions in by the Fall, but if you do happen to be looking at colleges in the Spring then check to see what Raleigh festivals are happening during your visit. 

Coffee Shops near NC State University

Ok, students, you’re going to need to get a pen and paper for this one, as every college kid knows that a good cup of coffee is what you need to start a day fresh and ready to learn.

These are some of our favorite coffee shops and cafes near NC State University for a decent cup of Joe first thing in the morning, or any time of day! 

Jubala Coffee

Jubala Coffee is a great all-around coffee shop on Hillsborough Street, right across the road from NC State University (2100 Hillsborough St). You’ll find a cool vibe, and it’s always full of students working online or meeting up with their peers, which creates this overall productive and pulsing environment.

They have a full coffee bar menu, and small bites menu, such as waffles, toasted sandwiches, baked goods and biscuits – I’m a big fan of their bacon + egg + cheese biscuit, and my kids their love the Nutella waffles!

There’s outside seating on Hillsborough St where you can work under the views of the iconic NC State Belltower . In the fall, their pumpkin spice latte is one of our go-to drinks!

Global Village Organic Coffee

If Jubala is full, then don’t stress, a short walk away on Hillsborough is Global Village Organic Coffee (2428 Hillsborough St), another popular spot for NC State students to enjoy coffee off-campus!

As the name suggests, it serves organic coffee and tea and has a really cozy feel to it. They even have wellness teas and super tea lattes for the health-conscious folk.

They have a small, light menu with baked goods and sandwiches, and have some great breakfast options like a breakfast burrito or avocado toast. Plus seasonal drinks such as peppermint mocha and Christmas cookie latte during Christmas time.

Lucky Tree Cafe

Lucky Tree is also on Hillsborough Street, but a bit further away from the university, about a 5-minute drive (3801 Hillsborough St). It’s a cozy coffee shop with a warming vibe. I love the vintage decor furnishings and artwork on display.

They have a wide range of organic coffee and tea options, as well as vegan and gluten-free baked goods. They also source their produce locally – their coffee is roasted in Durham and the milk they use is by NC State’s Howling Cow .

It also doubles up as an art and gift shop and sells goods that were handmade by more than 50 local artists. Need some decorative items to make your dorm room feel homey? This could be the spot to find it!

In the evenings, they host live music nights and have a “Free the Mic” event every 2nd and 4th Monday from 7.00pm – 10.00pm. 

Cup of Joe 

Cup of Joe is a popular coffee shop amongst the State students in Raleigh and is also on Hillsborough St (3100) and is a place where you always see people on laptops or meet with their classmates and friends.

They’re a small establishment, but they roast their own beans in-house, so you know they are fresh and aromatic. It’s all about good coffee and interesting vibes! 

Places To Eat Near NC State University

NCSU is surrounded by numerous food options along Hillsborough Street and nearby. If you’re feeling hungry after your NC State tour, I’ve narrowed down the list to the best and most popular restaurants near NC State.

From classic Southern cuisine to some international favorites, Raleigh has many fantastic restaurants and places to eat for all budgets and style.

The Player’s Retreat

A true NC State sports bar , especially for students and alumni, the Player’s Retreat or PR to the locals (105 Oberlin Rd), has been operating since 1951 and is the oldest continuously running tavern between Atlanta and Washington D.C.

A short walk from campus (105 Oberlin Rd), choose from intimate booths, tables on the sidewalk, or a bar stool. With a focus on hamburgers and sandwiches, they serve up some of the  best burgers in Raleigh including local favorites, Wolfpack Burger and the Bill Walton Burger.

For starters I love Mimi’s Sausage Dip & Chips, but great range of bar food including entrees from the grill and salads. Kids eat FREE here on Sundays!

Gonza Tacos Y Tequila

Gonza Tacos Y Tequila is one of our favorite places to get our Mexican food fix in Raleigh ! Located next door to Jubala Coffee and across the road from the NC State campus, this is the best place to find Colombian-Mexican cuisine and hand-crafted Latin cocktails.

The vibe of this restaurant is fun and upbeat, and it has a cool lantern decor of lanterns. When the weather is nice, they open their huge windows to create an indoor/outdoor seating area. We like to dine here before going to an NC State women’s basketball game at nearby Reynolds Coliseum.

Irregardless Cafe

For great Vegetarian, Irregardless Cafe (901 W Morgan St) is a 3-minute drive away from main campus and one of the top vegetarian restaurants in Raleigh (meat options, too). They have a true farm-to-table ethos and were a winner of Open Table’s top vegetarian restaurant in the USA!

They have a seasonal menu based on what’s growing that time of year and also have vegan options. The atmosphere is cozy, and the decor is clad with artwork from local artists. You can also watch live music here on select nights of the week.

David’s Dumplings & Noodle Bar

For Asian cuisine, check out David’s Dumplings and Noodle Bar , also located on Hillsborough Street close to campus.

They have been serving up excellent dumplings and Pan-Asian dishes since 2010 and is a popular meeting spot for NC State University students and Raleigh locals. Consider one of their unique Sake cocktails!

Amedeo’s Italian Restaurant

No trip to NC State University would be complete without stopping by Amedeo’s Italian Restaurant (3905 Western Blvd) which has the largest display of NC State Sports memorabilia anywhere in Raleigh!

The restaurant is a casual, pizzeria style with the typical sports bar feels with games on the TV and NC State Wolfpack fans sharing beers and conversation. It’s a great restaurant to visit to get a feel for student life in Raleigh.

Char-Grill Burgers

Char-Grill is a local fast-food chain that serves up some of the best burgers in Raleigh . They have been serving burgers in this spot since 1959 and have an old-fashioned feel for the place.

Even placing your order is a trip down memory lane, as you fill out a paper order sheet with a pencil and then wait for your food to be fried up. If you need something quick to eat, this is the best place. Simple, honest food.

Sammy’s Tap & Grill

Sammy’s (2235 Avent Ferry Rd) is another classic sports bar with booths and TV screens lining the entire bar area. Located just a short 0.5 mile walk from Centennial Campus or a 5-minute drive from main campus, Sammy’s has been a popular watering hole for students for more than 20 years.

For college sports, this is one of my favorite sports bars and NC State hangouts. You may even spot some Carolina Hurricanes fans here!  The burgers and wings are good, plus there’s plenty of other typical bar food including tacos, pizza, sandwiches, and wraps. NOTE: on NFL Sunday’s, this is the HQ of the Pittsburgh Steelers supporter’s club !

Groucho’s Deli

If you’re looking for a quick sandwich, you can find a classic deli style bite to eat at Groucho’s Deli (10 Horne St) just off Hillsborough Street, which has been serving up subs and sandwiches near campus since the early 2000s.

They have a huge salad menu, and I like the casual, old-school vibe here Another great option for something super casual and affordable.

Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar

For quality Indian cuisine, Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar (105 Friendly Dr #101) is a local favorite with over one thousand 4.8-star reviews. It has an intimate dining decor and flavorful dishes. 

The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and they have won several awards for their meals – including Best of the Triangle in 2021 and 2022.

Mitch’s Tavern

Mitch’s Tavern is located right in the heart of Hillsborough Street (above Global Village Coffee) and across from NC State Uni and has an old-time feel, almost like a UK pub feel as you walk up the stairs to the second story bar area.

It’s one of the most historic bars in the city, dating back to 1974, and is well-known as the tavern in the 1988 Kevin Costner and Susan Sarandon movie  “Bull Durham.”  

Kitted out with wood-accent furnishings and quirky NC State memorabilia hanging on the walls. And they have balcony windows overlooking campus so you can sit and imagine what student life would be like here.

Popular for great sandwiches (I enjoyed Mitch’s Reuben), hearty soups, chili, and of course washed down with beers, all at reasonable prices.

Playa Bowls 

If you love smoothie bowls and acai bowls, then Playa Bowls (2526 Hillsborough St) is the place to go for freshness and taste! They have an environmentally friendly ethos and value nutrition and healthy food. And I love their colorful and bright interior space and college like atmosphere!

For those who enjoy sushi, consider putting Sushi Nine on your itinerary. Located on Western Boulevard (3812 Western Blvd) which runs parallel to Hillsborough on the other side of campus, they have over two-thousand 4.3-star reviews.

They serve beautifully created sushi rolls and tantalizing gyozas. Large menu also offering a range of Thai and Vietnamese dishes for the non-sushi eaters!

Brickhouse Sports Pub

Yet another sports bar for food and drink on Hillsborough Street is Brickhouse Sports Bar & Grille (3801 Hillsborough St) which is where the Wolfpack Weekly radio show with Head Football coach Dave Doeren is held on Wednesday nights during football season.

Yes, it’s an NC State and Carolina Hurricanes bar, but on Saturdays in the Fall during college football season, it’s the HQ of the Ohio State Buckeyes alumni club, and on Sunday’s New England Patriots fan club .

Decent variety of above-average bar food (wings, chips, and sausage dip are popular), great friendly service, and over 40 beers on tap and daily drink specials.

Tazza Kitchen

Tazza Kitchen is a popular kitchen and bar in the heart of the Village District which is just behind Hillsborough Street and walking distance to main campus.

It’s a bit fancier than the other restaurants on this list and makes for a perfect dinner experience, and if you end up attending State and meeting someone, quality date night option!

They have a great cocktail bar with lots of options, including excellent craft cocktails, regional wines, local brews, and more. The menu is seasonal with freshly sourced ingredients from nearby farmers. Reservations recommended.

Trophy Brewing & Pizza

Beer + pizza, what’s not to love? This combination makes  Trophy Brewing & Pizza  (827 W Morgan St) is less than a mile from main campus and one of the popular  breweries in Raleigh .

This true neighborhood brewery features a wide selection of house made beers plus creative pizzas made by hand every day.

Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing

If you’re looking for the best patio view of downtown Raleigh, Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing (201 S Boylan Ave) can’t be beat. This is a small craft brewery that brews not only refreshing beers and signature cocktails, but their elevated food menu is next level.

Great option for brunch on weekends, or lunch and dinner. Or simply come for the brews and stay for the views!

Breweries & Bars Near NC State University

All college students need to brush up on where the best bars and places to drink are, so if you’re ready to sample the nightlife, don’t miss these top bars and breweries in Raleigh !

The Player’s Retreat

Yes, the Player’s Retreat is getting a second mention. Even if you don’t eat here, pop in for a drink, or two. Throughout the year, if Wolfpack fans can’t make it to an actual NC State game, this is the place to watch it, and maybe play a game of pool.

There’s a local tradition here in Raleigh, after a game day, NC State students head to The Player’s Retreat! This has been going on for over 70 years. And the PR is home to the largest collection of single malt whiskeys in the state.

This is the kind of local neighborhood bar I like to experience when we travel, and besides NC State fans you’ll also find an eclectic mix of people.

Red Line Beer & Wine

Red Line Beer & Wine (10 Horne St) is a bottle shop in Raleigh that serves a selection of 24 rotating craft beers on tap and has fine wines by the glass. 

It’s more sophisticated than your regualr bottle shop and a real neighborhood bar feel with a nice and welcoming ambiance. They even have board games and instruments you can play if you fancy it.

It’s a popular haunt for students, especially on weekend evenings for letting off steam after a day of studying.

Raleigh Brewing

Raleigh Brewing (3709 Neil St) is located in the same area as Lucky Tree Cafe and is a brewery that celebrates everything in Raleigh. It has murals of the city on the walls and has named their beers after places in Raleigh. 

They have more than 20 beers on tap, including the famous Hell Yes Ma’am (warning: 9.2% ABV), and have a spacious outdoor beer garden.

Looking for more drink option? Of course, you can just go for a drink at several of the aforementioned places to eat such as Wye Hill, Mitch’s Tavern, Sammy’s, Brickhouse, Tazza, Trophy Brewing and Gonzas.

Itinerary For After Your NC Campus Tour

If you’re planning on visiting Raleigh more in-depth during your NC State campus tour, then you may want to check out our complete, step-by-step itineraries which cover things to do and places to eat in detail. 

We have a 24-hour itinerary for Raleigh and a 48-hour itinerary for Raleigh which takes you to explore the city on a grander scale beyond the University area.

Where To Stay Near NC State University

If you’re still looking for a place to stay before your campus tour, below are some great hotels near NC State University we recommend.

StateView Hotel

The StateView is a 4* hotel located directly on Centennial Campus by Lake Raleigh and is the best place to stay if you want somewhere a bit more luxurious.

They have free parking on site, an outdoor swimming pool and gym, and a restaurant and bar. Each room is spacious and homey. For a place to stay on-site, you really can’t go wrong.

Located right on Hillsborough St and directly above Jubala Coffee overlooking the Belltower, Aloft Hotel is a 3* mid-range accommodation option with simple and comfortable rooms with all the amenities you need for an enjoyable stay.

Besides the ability to walk to the main campus of NC State, they offer free use of bicycles, which is another great way to get around and explore the campus.

The Casso is a boutique hotel and if it’s your first time in Raleigh with your family, why not treat yourself? This hotel is ideally located just 1.2 miles from the main campus and walking distance to Glenwood Sth and the Warehouse District.

It offers free bikes for guests, private parking, and a well-equipped gym. All rooms are spacious and inviting and come with a desk and a flat-screen TV.

Residence Inn Downtown Raleigh

For those with a modest budget and who want to experience downtown Raleigh, the Residence Inn is a top choice and only a 6-minute drive away. It’s operated by the Marriott, so you know it has high standards, but at a reasonable cost.

Each room is a suite and comes with a kitchen, a work desk and coffee making facilities, which is perfect for those looking to be more self-sufficient and get some work done – maybe getting those applications in!

AC Hotel by Marriott

Another practical place to stay near the university is the AC Hotel By Marriott , located right on Glenwood Ave. It has simple rooms with modern furniture and huge windows filling the space with natural light.

It’s only a 25-minute walk from the NC State University campus or a 3-minute drive, and a highlight is the Willard rooftop lounge with uninterrupted views of downtown Raleigh!

Getting To NC State University, Raleigh

If you’re planning to visit North Carolina State University by flying into Raleigh/Durham Airport (RDU) , note that RDU Airport and NC State University are 12 miles apart, approximately a 15–20-minute drive.

I recommend you rent a car from RDU and drive yourself as a way of getting around Raleigh , as this way you can drive to many of the top attractions in Raleigh easily, and you can also cover more of the city in a shorter time frame. For parking at NC State, click here .

Alternatively, you can travel from RDU to NC State University by taking the GoTriangle bus Route 100, which costs just $2.25. And if you’re driving to Raleigh, here is a complete guide on getting to Raleigh to help you out.

Final Thoughts

Since you’ve cast your eyes on NC State University as a candidate for college and wondering what it might be like to live in Raleigh ? Well, now you know!

It’s no secret that Raleigh offers many benefits to students. It has a high quality of life, a living, and an abundance of internship and work opportunities post-college. 

However, if you’re worried your college days will be boring and spent crammed in dorm rooms studying, we hope this guide puts your mind at ease because as you can see, there are lots of things to do near NC State University in Raleigh for students.

About The Author

Craig Makepeace

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🏀 Women's Tourney

🏆 South Carolina wins 2024 title

🎉 A season like no other

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NCAA.com | April 8, 2024

Uconn beats purdue to win the 2024 national championship.

UConn is the 2024 NCAA tournament champion after beating Purdue, 75-60 . Here is the final look at 2024 March Madness, which started with Selection Sunday on March 17. 

You can get a printable 2024 NCAA bracket here .

Here is the game-by-game rundown for the 2024 men's tournament. Click or tap on each game to be taken to the final stats.

2024 NCAA tournament schedule, scores, highlights

Monday, April 8 (National championship game)

• (1) UConn 75 , (1) Purdue 60

Tuesday, March 19 (First Four in Dayton, Ohio)

• (16) Wagner 71 , (16) Howard 68
• (10) Colorado State 67 , (10) Virginia 42

Wednesday, March 20 (First Four in Dayton, Ohio)

• (16) Grambling 88 , (16) Montana State 81
• (10) Colorado 60 , (10) Boise State 53

Thursday, March 21 (Round of 64)

• (9) Michigan State 66 , (8) Mississippi State 51
• (11) Duquesne 71 , (6) BYU 67
• (3) Creighton 77 , (14) Akron 60
• (2) Arizona 85 , (15) Long Beach State 65
• (1) North Carolina 90 , (16) Wagner 61
• (3) Illinois 85 , (14) Morehead State 69
• (11) Oregon 87 , (6) South Carolina 73
• (7) Dayton 63 , (10) Nevada 60
• (7) Texas 56 , (10) Colorado State 44
• (14) Oakland 80 , (3) Kentucky 76
• (5) Gonzaga 86 , (12) McNeese 65
• (2) Iowa State 82 , (15) South Dakota State 65
• (2) Tennessee 83 ,   (15) Saint Peter's 49
• (7) Washington State 66 , (10) Drake 61
• ( 11) NC State 80 , (6) Texas Tech 67
• (4) Kansas 93 , (13) Samford 89

Friday, March 22 (Round of 64)

• (3) Baylor 92 ,   (14) Colgate 67
• (9) Northwestern 77 , (8) Florida Atlantic 65  (OT)
• (5) San Diego State 69 , (12) UAB 65
• (2) Marquette 87 ,   (15) Western Kentucky 69
• (1) UConn 91 , (16) Stetson 52
• (6) Clemson 77 , (11) New Mexico 56
• (10) Colorado 102 , (7) Florida 100   
• (13) Yale 78 , (4) Auburn 76 
• (9) Texas A&M 98 , (8) Nebraska 83
• (4) Duke 64 , (13) Vermont 47
• (1) Purdue 78 , (16) Grambling 50
• (4) Alabama 109 , (13) College of Charleston 96
• (1) Houston 86 , (16) Longwood 46
• (12) James Madison 72 , (5) Wisconsin 61
• (8) Utah State 88 , (9) TCU 72 
• (12) Grand Canyon 77 , (5) Saint Mary's 66

Saturday, March 23 (Round of 32)

• (2) Arizona 78,  (7) Dayton 68
• (5) Gonzaga 89 , (4) Kansas 68
• (1) North Carolina 85 , (9) Michigan State 69
• (2) Iowa State 67 , (7) Washington State 56
• (11) NC State 79 , (14) Oakland 73
• (2) Tennessee 62 , (7) Texas 58
• (3) Illinois 89 , (11) Duquesne 63 
• (3) Creighton 86 , (11) Oregon 73 (2OT)

Sunday, March 24 (Round of 32)

• (2) Marquette 81,  (10) Colorado 77
• (1) Purdue 106,  (8) Utah State 67
• (4) Duke 93 , (12) James Madison 55 
• (6) Clemson 72 , (3) Baylor 64
• (4) Alabama 72 , (12) Grand Canyon 61
• (1) UConn 75 , (9) Northwestern 58
• (1) Houston 100 , (9) Texas A&M 95 (OT)
• (5) San Diego State 85 , (13) Yale 57 

Thursday, March 28 (Sweet 16)

• (6) Clemson 77 , (2) Arizona 72
• (1) UConn 82 , (5) San Diego State 52
• (4) Alabama 89 , (1) North Carolina 87
• (3) Illinois 72 , (2) Iowa State 69

Friday, March 29 (Sweet 16)

• (11) NC State 66 , (2) Marquette 58
• (1) Purdue 80 , (5) Gonzaga 68
• (4) Duke 54 , (1) Houston 51
• (2) Tennessee 82 , (3) Creighton 75

Saturday, March 30 (Elite Eight)

• (1) UConn 77 , (3) Illinois 52
• (4) Alabama 89 , (6) Clemson 82

Sunday, March 31 (Elite Eight)

• (1) Purdue 72 , (2) Tennessee 66
• (11) NC State 76 , (4) Duke 64

Saturday, April 6 (Final Four)

• (1) Purdue 63 , (11) NC State 50
• (1) UConn 86 , (4) Alabama 72

• Selection Sunday: 6 p.m. ET Sunday, March 17 on CBS
• First Four: March 19-20
• First round: March 21-22
• Second round: March 23-24 
• Sweet 16: March 28-29 
• Elite Eight: March 30-31 
• Final Four: Saturday, April 6 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
• NCAA championship game: Monday, April 8 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

These are the sites for the men's tournament in 2024:

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South Carolina-Iowa highlights: Gamecocks top Caitlin Clark for national title

CLEVELAND – It was a revenge tour, indeed.  

South Carolina avenged its only loss of last season, beating Iowa 87-75  Sunday afternoon for the Gamecocks’ third national championship under Dawn Staley and topping a perfect 2023-24 season.

This one is extra sweet for Staley & Co. because a year ago, the Hawkeyes stunned top-seeded South Carolina in the semifinals, dealing the previously undefeated Gamecocks their only loss of the season.  

USC players had been asked all weekend if they wanted another shot at Iowa, and they didn’t shy away from saying yes. 

South Carolina’s win also ends the brilliant college career of Caitlin Clark on a low note. The all-time leading scorer in the history of Division I basketball took her team to two Final Fours, a tremendous feat, but came up short in the national championship game each time.

FOLLOW THE MADNESS: NCAA basketball bracket, scores, schedules, teams and more.

That’s a heartache Staley knows well: As a player at Virginia from 1988-92, Staley led her team to three Final Fours, never winning a championship. 

Dawn Staley earns six-figure bonus after winning title

With South Carolina’s NCAA championship and undefeated season, coach Dawn Staley earned another six-figure bonus. The national title gives Staley a $250,000 bonus. Staley will end this season with $680,000 in bonuses in addition to her $3.1 million in basic pay from the school. – Steve Berkowitz

How Dawn Staley forged championship legacy after heartbreak

CLEVELAND —  Dawn Staley  still goes over critical mistakes from 1991. 

It was March 31, 33 years ago. Staley was the point guard for the Virginia Cavaliers and the best player in America. 

The Cavaliers were up five with 1:25 to play in regulation in the national championship game against the Tennessee Lady Vols and legendary coach Pat Summitt. 

Then, suddenly, they were only up two with 48 seconds to play. Then-UVA coach Debbie Ryan called a timeout and drew up a play for Staley to get to the rim. (You could not advance the ball in the final minute back then.) Read the rest of the story here.

South Carolina and other undefeated women's teams who won title

The Gamecocks spun a season of perfection, capped Sunday with a third national championship after  defeating the Hawkeyes .

South Carolina , which entered the women's NCAA Tournament as the overall No. 1 seed, marched through March Madness with what looked like relative ease. Dawn Staley's players had not lost since the Hawkeyes beat them in last year’s Final Four, and the Gamecocks were winning by nearly 30 points a game.

Kamilla Cardoso  anchored the offense and defense and will be among the top five picks in the WNBA Draft on April 15. Read the rest of the story here.

Opinion: Caitlin Clark forever changed college game

CLEVELAND — There are athletes so transcendent, their impact so transformative, their sports are forever defined by the before and after.

There is baseball before and after Babe Ruth. Golf before and after Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, and then again before and after Tiger Woods. Basketball before and after Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.

And there will be basketball before and after Caitlin Clark,  whose college career ended   Sunday with an 87-75 loss to South Carolina  in the national championship game. She has changed both her game and how women’s sports overall are viewed,  very much for the better , and neither will ever be the same. Read the rest of the column here.

What's next for Caitlin Clark?

CLEVELAND — What’s next for CC? 

Caitlin Clark’s brilliant, record-breaking collegiate career has come to an end. The Iowa star, a  two-time national player of the year , and the Hawkeyes  fell in the national championship game  for the second consecutive year as South Carolina capped a perfect season. 

Clark, a logo-shooting supernova who captured the hearts and  eyes of millions  over the past couple of seasons while  re-writing the scoring record books , will go down as one of the  most transcendent stars in all of sports , at all of 22 years old. In a state with a  deep history of hoops known for producing stellar women's basketball players , Clark stands above the rest. Read the rest of the story here.

Final: South Carolina 87, Iowa 75

For the third time in eight seasons, and twice in the last three, the South Carolina Gamecocks are NCAA champions.

South Carolina withstood late charges from Iowa and pulled away in the NCAA Women’s Tournament final, 87-75, to claim its third championship in program history.

South Carolina relied on its height, presence inside the paint and depth.

The Gamecocks secured an edge in rebounds (51-29), offensive rebounds (18-7), second-chance points (30-16), points in the paint (48-32) and bench points (37-0).

Iowa closed the margin with an 8-0 run midway through the fourth quarter while Gamecocks center Kamilla Cardoso was getting a spell on the bench, but the Gamecocks steadied and converted their clutch shots.

Cardoso posted a double-double with 15 points and 17 rebounds, and Gamecocks freshman Tessa Johnson led all South Carolina players with 19 points.

Iowa guard Caitlin Clark, playing her last game for the Hawkeyes, finished with 30 points on 10-of-28 shooting.

Gamecocks in control

South Carolina is a quarter away from winning it all for the second time in three seasons.

The Gamecocks extended their lead in the third quarter, outscoring Iowa by six, and go into the final frame up 68-59.

South Carolina, going back to late in the second quarter, opened the second half on an 11-0 run. Iowa’s defense delivered some stops midway through the period and the Hawkeyes were able to cut the deficit to two, but South Carolina closed the quarter on an 11-4 run.

Gamecocks freshman Tessa Johnson hit a pair of 3-pointers late in the quarter and now leads all South Carolina players, despite coming off the bench.

After sprinting out of the gates in a torrid start, Iowa’s shots have stopped dropping — in large part because of South Carolina’s pressure defense. The Hawkeyes are now just 20-of-50 (40%) from the floor.

Star Iowa guard Caitlin Clark dropped 18 points in the first quarter, but has gone just 3-of-13 (23.1%) from the floor since then. She leads all scorers with 25.

Iowa needs to step up on defense

CLEVELAND — If there’s been a knock against Iowa all season, it’s been the Hawkeyes’ defense.

Iowa is incredible offensively, especially when the Hawks are out in transition; no one loves to floor and distribute like Caitlin Clark.

But trailing 65-55, Iowa could really use a defensive stop. That’s hard against a team that has great size and athleticism. But Iowa needs to figure out a way to slow down South Carolina, which fired off an 8-0 run faster than you could blink. Meanwhile, Iowa went scoreless for more than three minutes.

In a game like this, momentum matters, big-time.

And that’s why Iowa coach Lisa Bluder just burned her second timeout, to try to stop the bleeding, as South Carolina has taken a 68-57 lead after a three from Tessa Johnson. There's only 1:06 left in the third, but Bluder knows it matters. 

Tamika Catchings, Jalen Hurts among celebs at game

The stars have descended on Cleveland for the national championship game between Iowa and South Carolina. Hall of Famer Tamika Catchings and WNBA MVP Candace Parker are at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse to watch the new generation of talent.

Parker was sitting with USWNT legend Megan Rapinoe. Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is there, as is “Ted Lasso” star Jason Sudeikis and singer and Gamecocks alum Darius Rucker.

Caitlin Clark getting help from teammates

CLEVELAND – Bree Hall looks frustrated.

The 6-foot junior guard has done a terrific job guarding Caitlin Clark this afternoon. She’s had a hand in her face — literally — every time Clark has crossed half-court, and Clark has worked hard for each of her 23 points.

But Hall can’t do everything.

After a missed three from South Carolina, Clark corralled the ball and raced up the court — with Hall right with her. Hall managed to get in front of Clark, who retreated to the corner … but then Hannah Stuelke flew toward the basket for a layup. After she scored, bringing the Hawkeyes within four, Hall turned away from the basket and let out a heavy sigh, visibly annoyed.

That’s a testament, again, to how well Clark’s teammates have played this tournament and how dependable they’ve become. You might be able to slow Clark, but she’s far from your only problem.

South Carolina in control to start third quarter

The Gamecocks stayed hot to start the third quarter, going on an 11-0 run that went back to the end of the second quarter. Iowa finally scored on a Clark jumper at around the 7-minute mark.

South Carolina fights back, leads Iowa at halftime

CLEVELAND — Well, that was exhilarating.

Caitlin Clark is sucking wind, Raven Johnson is breathing hard and we’ve got one hell of a game on our hands. Are you ready for two more quarters?

It’s clear that everyone on the floor is exhausted — that’s partially how Johnson just managed to sneak a steal from Clark. This game might come down to who’s more in shape, including if it turns into a free-throw shooting contest. At the end of the game when you’ve lost your legs, you have to be even more conscious of bending your knees and getting the ball to the rim.

Pay close attention the second half if shots are short. Both teams shot reasonably well in the first half — 47% for South Carolina and 45% for Iowa — but the Gamecocks have 12 more attempts, a direct result of their 12 offensive rebounds, which they’ve turned into 19 second-chance points.

Gamecocks course-correct in second quarter, lead 49-46

If the first quarter was all Caitlin Clark and Iowa, the second was a course-correction for South Carolina.

The Gamecocks opened the period on a 7-0 run to erase Iowa’s early lead and take a three-point lead — its largest of the game — into halftime.

This has been a game of contrasting styles. Iowa is looking to grab defensive rebounds and sprint out in transition. South Carolina, meanwhile, is crowding the paint and using its height to secure offensive rebounds and extend possessions; the Gamecocks have a 12-4 advantage on offensive boards and have scored 19 second-chance points, compared to Iowa’s 11.

South Carolina also holds a 27-18 overall edge on the glass and has scored 30 points in the paint.

Clark scored just three points in the second quarter after dropping 18 in the first and leads all scorers with 21.

Gamecocks center Kamilla Cardoso leads her team with 11 points on 5-of-10 shooting, but South Carolina’s bench has been a big factor, chipping in nearly half of the team’s points, with 22. Iowa’s bench, by comparison, hasn’t scored a single point.

South Carolina is up, 49-46.

Dawn Staley is fired up

After Kamilla Cardoso grabbed an offensive board and flipped it right back into the basket, Dawn Staley turned to her bench and held out her arms as if to say, “Why aren’t we doing that EVERY time?” The Hawkeyes have no answer for Cardoso, and Staley knows it.

Staley is visibly upset — extremely upset. She’s been on the officials since the jump, furious that Iowa star Caitlin Clark has already been able to draw numerous fouls against South Carolina. (Clark is 5-of-6 from the line.)

Staley’s assistants have rushed on the floor a few times to pull her back, encouraging her to back off the officials so she doesn’t get hit with a technical. She’s sat down a couple of times then popped right back up, and spent the first chunk of the most recent media timeout giving official Brenda Pantoja an earful.

She hasn’t been warned officially yet, but it’s something to keep an eye on. Midway through the second quarter, Iowa has shot nine free throws and South Carolina just three.

Caitlin Clark takes down another record

The records continue to fall for Caitlin Clark.

Already the NCAA's all-time leading scorer, Clark needed 18 points in today's game to pass Tennessee great Chamique Holdsclaw for the most total points in a single women's NCAA Tournament.

It took her one quarter to break the record.

Clark went 5-for-8 from the field and her 3-pointer with 20 seconds left in the quarter put her over the top.

"When she feels it, she feels it, " Iowa coach Lisa Bluder said between periods.

Holdsclaw won three straight NCAA championships with the Vols in 1996, '97 and '98 and, like Clark, was a two-time national player of the year.

Caitlin Clark already has 18 points

Caitlin Clark poured in a blistering 18 points on five-of-eight shooting in the first quarter, including three-of-four from beyond the arc.

Iowa off to blazing start but Gamecocks fight back

South Carolina may have entered as the undefeated favorite, but it was Iowa who started the game on a torrid pace.

The Gamecocks would settle, but star Hawkeyes guard Caitlin Clark poured in a blistering 18 points on five-of-eight shooting, including three-of-four from beyond the arc.

The Hawkeyes scored the game’s first 10 points and ripped off a 20-9 run within the first five minutes of the game to build an early lead. Iowa looked to push the pace in transition to prevent the Gamecocks from settling into their base defense.

Iowa hit six of its first eight shots and — behind Clark drawing a couple of fouls on attempted 3 pointers — the Hawkeyes also drew an early edge on free throws.

Iowa enters the second quarter up 27-20.

Mike Trout shows up at ballpark wearing Caitlin Clark jersey

Count Angels superstar Mike Trout among Caitlin Clark's legion of fans.

In a photo posted on Instagram Sunday, Trout was shown wearing a black No. 22 Clark jersey over what appeared to be a black hoodie as he walked through the tunnel at Angel Stadium in Anaheim.

Trout may catch the start of the women's championship game before taking the field to face the Red Sox.

Kamilla Cardoso looks OK warming up, despite injured knee

Kamilla Cardoso is wearing a sleeve on her right leg – it's white today, unlike Friday's black one – to cover the brace she's got on her injured knee. Cardoso hurt it in the second quarter against NC State, but was able to return for the second half and said after the game that she was fine, just needed more treatment. She looks OK, playfully kicking the ball as if it's a soccer ball during warm-ups. (Like pretty much everyone from Brazil, Cardoso is a big soccer fan.)

What time is Iowa vs. South Carolina?  

Iowa vs. South Carolina tips off at 3 p.m. ET today. 

Iowa vs. South Carolina predictions  

USA TODAY’s Nancy Armour has Caitlin Clark and Iowa getting the victory over undefeated South Carolina while Lindsay Schnell has the Gamecocks remaining undefeated to grab their third national championship. 

How to watch Iowa vs. South Carolina  

ESPN is airing and streaming Iowa vs. South Carolina . 

How to stream Iowa vs. South Carolina  

All games will be broadcast on ESPN. Here are additional streaming options to watch all the action on your devices. 

• Stream through  HULU with Live TV  
• NCAA March Madness Live app  
• Stream through  DirecTV Stream  
• Watch all tournament games with a subscription to fuboTV  

When does Caitlin Clark play again?  

Caitlin Clark and top-seeded Iowa takes to the court today in Cleveland against No. 1 South Carolina. They tip off about 3 p.m. ET. 

How many points has Caitlin Clark scored?  

As Iowa’s Caitlin Clark continues to rewrite the record books, USA TODAY Sports is tracking all her stats during the NCAA Tournament. Here’s everything you need to know about the superstar guard. Here is an in-depth, illustrated look at the Iowa star and her race to the all-time NCAA Division I scoring record. 

Kamilla Cardoso injury update  

South Carolina star Kamilla Cardoso left the Final Four game against NC State on Friday night after a fall that tweaked her right knee . She and coach Dawn Staley said after the game she was fine and would play against Iowa in the national championship. 

Dawn Staley thinks Caitlin Clark needs a ring to be the GOAT  

As she’s rewritten the record books over the course of her brilliant four-year career,  Caitlin Clark  has sparked numerous debates about if she is, in fact, the greatest of all time (GOAT) when it comes to college women’s basketball.  

No offense to Clark, who earlier this season became the all-time leading scorer in Division I history regardless of gender, but South Carolina coach Dawn Staley thinks that title belongs to former UConn standout Brenna Stewart.  

“I was really good in college, never won a championship,” said Staley , who led Virginia to three Final Fours, losing the only national championship she played for, in 1991. “You've got to win a championship. That's (my opinion) personally. Like I had a great career. But it's always, did you win a championship?” Read Lindsay Schnell’s full story . 

Caitlin Clark, Iowa shouldn't be able to beat South Carolina. But they will.  

Look at Iowa and South Carolina on paper, and it’s obvious the Gamecocks should win the national championship Sunday. 

Kamilla Cardoso is a force of nature , and Iowa has no one who can counter her. Shot-blocker Ashlyn Watkins has quietly been having a spectacular tournament . No one will sag off Raven Johnson this year . Dominant as South Carolina’s starting five are, the “second string” is equally lethal. 

And yet … there are teams that seem destined to win, and Iowa feels like one of them. 

It would be the fitting end to Caitlin Clark’s stupendous career , of course. She is already major college basketball’s all-time leading scorer and has altered the trajectory not only of women’s basketball but women’s sports. Sunday is the last game for her and Iowa’s super seniors, Kate Martin and Gabbie Marshall. 

Read Nancy Armour’s full column . 

Why South Carolina will beat Iowa and win third women's national championship  

By now you know all about when Caitlin Clark waved off Raven Johnson last year during the national semifinal, implying to Johnson – as well as everyone watching – that she didn’t view Johnson as enough of a shooting threat to guard her.  

Johnson was so haunted by that moment , she considered quitting basketball. But she’s lived in the gym since then, becoming a sharpshooter and go-to option in the clutch. She dubbed this season “the revenge tour,” and the last stop is Sunday. You really think she’s letting the Gamecocks lose again? Absolutely not. I’ll take South Carolina as my 2024 national championship pick. And don’t be surprised if South Carolina wins by 15+ — the Gamecocks are that good, that deep and that motivated. Read Lindsay Schnell’s full column . 

Caitlin Clark mastered her mental game and that has Iowa in the title game  

Iowa probably doesn’t make this national championship game earlier in Caitlin Clark’s career. 

 When the Hawkeyes’ offense was struggling against UConn on Friday night, when none of Clark’s shots were falling, when the Huskies were bodying the Iowa players from the moment they inbounded the ball, Clark could easily have gotten frustrated. Would easily have gotten frustrated in seasons past. Instead, she stayed almost preternaturally calm. 

Impressive as those logo 3s and her scoring average are, it’s Clark’s maturity that has brought the Hawkeyes within one game of winning it all. And she and everyone else at Iowa agree it’s that part of her game that’s come the furthest these last four seasons. 

“That doesn’t come without work. She’s put in a lot of work to the mental side of her game,” Kate Martin, who has played with Clark all four years, said Saturday. “That just shows how good of a teammate she is. She wanted to be better. She has all the basketball skills that she needs. She’s the best player in the country. But to work on the mental side, you can always get better on that.” Read Nancy Armour’s full story . 

How South Carolina's Raven Johnson used Final Four snub from Caitlin Clark to get even better 

Caitlin Clark almost made Raven Johnson quit basketball. 

The South Carolina guard spent weeks alone in her room, crying as she re-watched last year’s Final Four loss to Iowa. Over and over and over again. 

“More than 100 times probably,” Johnson said Saturday. 

It wasn’t only that Clark had waved off the unguarded Johnson, deeming her to be a non-threat offensively. It was that the clip of Clark doing it had gone viral, Johnson’s humiliation taking on epic proportions. 

“Caitlin's competitive, so I don't blame her for what she did. But it did hurt me,” Johnson said. “I'm just glad I had the resources that I had, the coaches that I had, the teammates that I had to help me get over that hump. And I just feel like it helped me. It made me mentally strong. 

“I feel like if I can handle that, I can handle anything in life." 

Johnson eventually did come out of her room. So she could head to the gym to work on her shot. Read Nancy Armour’s full story . 

South Carolina has chance to be greatest undefeated women's team 

Dawn Staley knows what the stat sheet says.  

According to the numbers, the top-seeded South Carolina Gamecocks are undefeated in the 2023-24 season, having been perfect in 37 games heading into their final contest, a rematch with Iowa which will be played Sunday with a national championship on the line.  

But Staley, in her 16th year with the program, isn’t totally sure it’s true. 

“It doesn’t feel like it,” Staley said. “We’ve played some bad basketball this season that made it feel like we lost.”  

In the history of the women’s NCAA Tournament, there have been nine undefeated champions. If South Carolina beats Iowa, the Gamecocks will become the 10th. Read Lindsay Schnell’s full story . 

College coaches demand more accountability from refs. Iowa-UConn call is the latest example 

As women’s basketball explodes in popularity and administrators realize its power as a revenue-generator , pressure to win has ratcheted up. And that makes every call, especially in a close game, matter. 

For all the discourse around the varying issues in college sports — out-of-control, booster-led NIL collectives, a transfer portal that never stops churning and the looming reality of revenue sharing with athletes — coaches, administrators and even officials agree on one thing: The officiating in women’s basketball needs major work. 

The NCAA declined to make Penny Davis, the head of women’s officiating, available to USA TODAY Sports. But others spoke about one of the game’s most problematic issues.  

“I think to the overall point as the game has gotten more spotlight and just more people purchasing tickets, watching on television, the fundamental question as administrators is, have we done enough to look at the officiating?” Utah athletic director Mark Harlan told USA TODAY Sports. “And I think the answer is no.” 

Read Lindsay Schnell’s full story here . 

Kamilla Cardoso is formidable and immovable force for South Carolina 

The most impressive part of Kamilla Cardoso ’s game isn’t the fact that she played through pain Friday night , injuring her knee late in the second half before returning to play the third quarter. It’s that she’s improved throughout the season. Even if she’s not at full strength, she’s a load on the block . 

Most people take noticeable jumps in skill, strength or athleticism in the offseason, when they can devote hours to their craft. It’s hard to work on your individual game during the season, when you’re juggling class, scouting reports and daily practice that’s usually focused on the team. But just a couple months ago, Cardoso had a bad habit of getting buried on the block. She was often rushed when she caught the ball and took terrible angles on shots, frequently shooting underneath the rim.  

Against NC State, she looked like a first-team All-American. She was patient and polished, taking her time to feel the defense before going the other way and scoring — often through a few sets of outstretched arms. For her size, she has impressive body control. And given her mobility, she could be making a case to move up to No. 2 in this month's WNBA Draft . Read Lindsay Schnell's full story from the Final Four . 

Caitlin Clark average points per game

Iowa superstar guard Caitlin Clark is averaging 32 points per game this season on 46% shooting. She also averages nine assists, 7.3 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game. We are tracking all of Caitlin Clark's stats here . 

Caitlin Clark 3-point percentage 

Caitlin Clark is shooting 38 percent from 3-point range this season. For her career at Iowa, she is shooting 38.8 percent from 3-point range.

Tessa Johnson stats  

South Carolina guard Tessa Johnson averages 6.2 points, 1.7 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 17.3 minutes per game. The 6-foot freshman has appeared in 33 games this season, shooting 43.1 percent from the field and 42.5 percent from 3. 

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