Water Damage Restoration in Raleigh, NC
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from North Carolina State University in Raleigh to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Raleigh, NC is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Raleigh. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like Joel Lane Museum House in Raleigh, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Raleigh.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Raleigh, NC
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Independence Village of Olde Raleigh in Raleigh for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Raleigh, NC, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Raleigh?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Pullen Park in Raleigh. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Raleigh, NC, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to North Carolina Executive Mansion in Raleigh, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Raleigh restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Raleigh, NC, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Raleigh, NC
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Raleigh, NC, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Death and Taxes in Raleigh. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Raleigh rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Raleigh, NC
Your last-minute tips for voting on Election Day 2024 in Raleigh, Durham NC area
Raleigh News & Observerhttps://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/voter-guide/article295014739.html
As Election Day 2024 approaches, voters in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and surrounding areas should prepare for in-person voting by familiarizing themselves with specific guidelines and locations.Early voting ran from October 17 to November 2, at numerous polling sites across various counties. On Election Day, November 5, voters are required to cast their ballots at their designated polling places. Important tips include bringing a valid photo ID, being ready for potential waiting times, and knowing that poll workers writing on ballo...
As Election Day 2024 approaches, voters in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and surrounding areas should prepare for in-person voting by familiarizing themselves with specific guidelines and locations.
Early voting ran from October 17 to November 2, at numerous polling sites across various counties. On Election Day, November 5, voters are required to cast their ballots at their designated polling places. Important tips include bringing a valid photo ID, being ready for potential waiting times, and knowing that poll workers writing on ballots does not affect their validity.
Additionally, curbside voting is available for those with age or disability-related challenges, and voters should be aware of rules regarding political attire and use of electronic devices. For further information, voters can visit the North Carolina State Board of Elections website.
The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories below were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.
Whether you’re voting early or on Election Day, here’s what you need to know about polling sites and ballots. | Published October 30, 2024 | Read Full Story by Renee Umsted
Whether you’re voting early or on Election Day, here’s what you need to know about polling sites and ballots. | Published October 30, 2024 | Read Full Story by Renee Umsted
Whether you’re voting early or on Election Day, here’s what you need to know about polling sites and ballots. | Published October 30, 2024 | Read Full Story by Renee Umsted
Whether you’re voting early or on Election Day, here’s what you need to know about polling sites and ballots. | Published October 30, 2024 | Read Full Story by Renee Umsted
Whether you’re voting early or on Election Day, here’s what you need to know about polling sites and ballots. | Published October 30, 2024 | Read Full Story by Renee Umsted
This report was produced with the help of AI tools, which summarized previous stories reported and written by McClatchy journalists. It was edited by journalists in our News division.
Donald Trump Met With Empty Seats at Final Rallies
Thomas G. Moukawsherhttps://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-met-empty-seats-final-rallies-1979972
As former President Donald Trump kicked off his four-rally tour across three states on Monday in Raleigh, North Carolina, many seats sat empty in the 5,000-seat J.S. Dorton Arena, marking the start of his final campaign push.Trump addressed his supporters in a 90-minute speech, covering familiar topics like his proposed tough immigration policies. He mentioned potential tariffs on Mexico if it doesn't assist with border control and a...
As former President Donald Trump kicked off his four-rally tour across three states on Monday in Raleigh, North Carolina, many seats sat empty in the 5,000-seat J.S. Dorton Arena, marking the start of his final campaign push.
Trump addressed his supporters in a 90-minute speech, covering familiar topics like his proposed tough immigration policies. He mentioned potential tariffs on Mexico if it doesn't assist with border control and aired grievances against his Democratic opponents.
Empty seats were evident at the rally, with social media users and Vice President Kamala Harris' Rapid Response team highlighting them despite Trump's frequent boasts about crowd sizes.
In North Carolina, Trump kicked off his marathon final day of campaigning, calling the state "ours to lose." His schedule includes stops in Pennsylvania—one of the most critical states on the electoral map—with rallies planned in Reading and Pittsburgh before Election Day.
However, while the former president has frequently boasted about filling arenas with enthusiastic crowds, as he nears the end of his third presidential campaign, his crowds have been smaller than he claims.
On Saturday in Greensboro, North Carolina, Trump closed off the upper section of an arena that Harris had filled. The lower section wasn't fully occupied, either. At his final stop in Milwaukee's Fiserv Forum, large sections on both sides of the stage remained empty.
Crowd sizes became a sensitive topic for Trump after Harris, aiming to provoke him during their September debate, referenced reports of supporters allegedly leaving his rallies early.
"People start leaving his rallies early out of exhaustion and boredom," she said, a comment that triggered a fiery response from Trump that night and has since become a recurring theme in his rallies.
On Thursday at a benefit with former Fox host Tucker Carlson in Glendale, Arizona, Trump spoke to his supporters, he revisited Harris' debate remark about people supposedly leaving his events "out of exhaustion and boredom."
Read more 2024 Election
"When that sleazebag said during the debate, 'Oh, your rallies aren't well-attended and people leave'—they don't leave, and they're packed. We can't find venues big enough," Trump said. "I told her, 'No, no, the rallies are the biggest in history, just like this one. We've never had an empty seat, and nobody leaves early.'
"If I ever saw people leaving, you know what I'd do? I'd say, 'Ladies and gentlemen, we're gonna make America great again, goodbye!' and everyone would be happy. But we don't need to do that—nobody leaves. It's a lovefest. It's never happened before."
Mom won $4M in NC lottery — but her kids weren’t so sure. ‘None of them believed me’
Simone Jasperhttps://www.newsobserver.com/news/state/north-carolina/article294992724.html
A North Carolina mom scored a $4 million lottery prize — but her kids weren’t so convinced.“I called my children and my mom but none of them believed me,” Tina Hansley told the N.C. Education Lottery.The win was the real deal, and it came after Hansley tried her luck on a $30 scratch-off ticket for the Black Titanium game. She had been ...
A North Carolina mom scored a $4 million lottery prize — but her kids weren’t so convinced.
“I called my children and my mom but none of them believed me,” Tina Hansley told the N.C. Education Lottery.
The win was the real deal, and it came after Hansley tried her luck on a $30 scratch-off ticket for the Black Titanium game. She had been playing the game since it launched in June 2023.
“There’s always a chance,” Hansley told lottery officials in a Nov. 1 news release. “You just never know so you try and see what happens.”
Tina Hansley of #Currie said her family couldn’t believe it when she told them she won a $4 million scratch-off prize. “I called my children and my mom but none of them believed me,” she laughed. Her Black Titanium ticket was from Yaya Mini Mart on NC 210. https://t.co/JYAMe5Pakg pic.twitter.com/KoAacV7Xmt
— NC Education Lottery (@nclottery) November 1, 2024
This time around, Hansley bought her lucky ticket at the Yaya Mini Mart in Currie, a roughly 25-mile drive northwest from Wilmington.
The big win left her seeking a second opinion.
“I asked the girl in the store to look at it to make sure I was looking at it right,” Hansley said. “Then I tried to settle down. I was shocked.”
The jackpot winner, who is also from Currie, opted out of annual payments and instead chose to take her prize as a lump sum of $2.4 million. She kept about $1.7 million after taxes.
It’s not the first time a lottery winner’s family members have been in disbelief. Another North Carolina woman had to send a screenshot to her daughters after she hit the jackpot, McClatchy News reported in October.
Many people can gamble or play games of chance without harm. However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families.
If you or a loved one shows signs of gambling addiction, you can seek help by calling the national gambling hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or visiting the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
First look: NC State, Duke football set to clash on Wolfpack’s senior day. What to know
Raleigh News & Observerhttps://www.newsobserver.com/sports/college/acc/article294631124.html
Over the weekend, N.C. State dominated Stanford in one of the best offensive performances in three seasons, while Duke’s loss to Miami ended its quest for an ACC Championship berth.Now, the two teams are on a collision course for a Wolfpack Senior Day matchup in Raleigh.Every game of a season is important, but this one feels particularly significant for both programs. The Blue Devils, who are already bowl eligible, look to end their two-game losing skid and return to .500 in the league.N.C. State, however, still se...
Over the weekend, N.C. State dominated Stanford in one of the best offensive performances in three seasons, while Duke’s loss to Miami ended its quest for an ACC Championship berth.
Now, the two teams are on a collision course for a Wolfpack Senior Day matchup in Raleigh.
Every game of a season is important, but this one feels particularly significant for both programs. The Blue Devils, who are already bowl eligible, look to end their two-game losing skid and return to .500 in the league.
N.C. State, however, still seeks bowl eligibility and needs one more win. It has already won two consecutive games. It would also like to redeem itself after last season’s 24-3 loss at Wallace Wade Stadium.
Neither team has been particularly dominant or consistent this season, which could open the door for a chaotic finish to the Pack’s home schedule.
“So proud of the team, and (I) look forward to building on this,” N.C. State head coach Dave Doeren said Saturday. “We talked about a five-game season, and we’ve got the first two wins out of those five, and just continue to try to stack those things here as we go.”
Peyton Jones provided a big spark on offense in Duke’s 53-31 loss to Miami. The sophomore contributed a career-high 71 rushing yards — matching his freshman season total — and one touchdown on the ground. He added three catches for 61 yards and his first career receiving touchdown.
Jones has been a consistent role player off the bench, primarily in the run game, adding at least 15 yards gained in every appearance this season. The sophomore has scored three rushing touchdowns for the Blue Devils.
Duke has relied heavily on the passing game this season. It averages 236.4 passing yards per game compared to 107.2 yards on the ground.
However, the Wolfpack is allowing 152.4 opponent rushing yards per game. It gave up 197 yards against Stanford, including two quarterback rushing touchdowns of more than 45 yards. Players like Jones could exploit N.C. State’s defensive weakness.
Fans could see a showdown in the backfield between two talented quarterbacks in N.C. State freshman CJ Bailey and Texas transfer Maalik Murphy.
Bailey took over the starting job earlier this season after graduate transfer Grayson McCall got a concussion against Louisiana Tech. With McCall’s medical retirement, Bailey remains the full-time starter.
The true freshman has improved weekly, looking confident in the pocket and becoming more decisive — especially on RPOs. He continues to improve his accuracy as well. Bailey has thrown 130 completions on 187 attempts (69.5%) for 1,610 yards, 11 touchdowns and four interceptions. Against Stanford, he went 18 of 20 through the air for 234 yards and three touchdowns without a pick. It was his second consecutive game without an interception.
Bailey is a relatively mobile quarterback, too, running 202 yards for two scores.
Meanwhile, Murphy has been described as a feast-or-famine QB. Originally recruited by Texas, Murphy has completed 189 of 321 (58.9%) pass attempts for 2,121 yards, 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
Murphy finished the game at Miami with a career-high 325 passing yards and added three touchdowns. He also threw three interceptions. The junior isn’t much of a threat in the run game, so the Blue Devils could see more blitzes as N.C. State looks to pressure Murphy and create turnovers.
N.C. State opened as a 2.5-point favorite, according to FanDuel Sports Book. The over-under was set at 51.5 points, with moneylines set at +114 for Duke and -134 for the Pack.
Teams: NC State Wolfpack (5-4, 2-3 ACC) vs Duke Blue Devils (6-3, 2-3 ACC)
Where: Carter-Finley Stadium, Raleigh
Date: Saturday, Nov. 9
Time: 3:30 p.m.
TV: ACC Network
Stream: fubo TV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, DIRECTV Stream, Sling TV
Series history: Duke leads the all-time series, 42-37-5, and has won three of the last four matchups. This is just the third meeting between the two programs in the last decade.
‘It’s unbelievable’: NC State unveils ACC Championship, NCAA Final Four banners
Raleigh News & Observerhttps://www.newsobserver.com/sports/college/acc/nc-state/article294969619.html
N.C. State head coach Kevin Keatts looked up to the rafters of the Lenovo Center, his hands on his son, KJ’s, shoulders. They watched — surrounded by the Wolfpack basketball team, staff and fans — as two banners unfurled, memorializing the program’s 2024 ACC Championship and Final Four run.It’s been a long time since the university got to do that — 37 years to be exact.Keatts did his best not to get emotional, because he knew the team still had to play its opener, but it was tough staying com...
N.C. State head coach Kevin Keatts looked up to the rafters of the Lenovo Center, his hands on his son, KJ’s, shoulders. They watched — surrounded by the Wolfpack basketball team, staff and fans — as two banners unfurled, memorializing the program’s 2024 ACC Championship and Final Four run.
It’s been a long time since the university got to do that — 37 years to be exact.
Keatts did his best not to get emotional, because he knew the team still had to play its opener, but it was tough staying composed.
“Man, it was beautiful,” Keatts said. “I knew that those banners would look good, but they look great. … It’s special. It’s kind of like, ‘Why do you do the job?’ The job is done because you want to see young men have success.”
Keatts said all he could think about were all the people that got the program to this point: the longtime supporters and alumni who were “starving” to win a championship, for the players who fell just short of the goal. He specifically thanked fans who attended the game or watched at home, noting his appreciation for their dedication to the program. It was special to have their support.
“Those banners represent everything about NC State, represent everything about me,” Keatts said. “I’m just fortunate to be the guy that was behind the wheel, driving the car.”
Guard Michael O’Connell watched the event, eyes laser-focused, his face showing the pride he felt. The senior said he didn’t get emotional — he’s not typically that kind of guy — but it gave him a little bit of extra excitement before tipoff.
“It was unbelievable,” O’Connell said. “It makes it official for us to see that banner drop and watch that little video before the game; kind of gives you the chills.”
The Wolfpack responded with a commanding 97-66 season-opening win over USC Upstate. N.C. State (1-0) was led in scoring by Bowling Green transfer Marcus Hill and fourth-year guard Breon Pass with 14 points each.
Pass, who participated in a backup role for the team during its run, said it was amazing to see the visual representation of the team’s accomplishments. And, his prediction from four years ago finally came true.
“I remember when I told (former assistant coach James Johnson) that before I leave N.C. State, I’m gonna have two banners up,” Pass said. “Look at it now. Now, I’m going for three, four, maybe.”
Pass said the fanfare added motivation for the newcomers, too. They saw what happened — and said they watched the Wolfpack’s run — and believe the program is capable of doing it again. Hill confirmed that statement.
Last season, Hill was an All-MAC First Team selection and one of the best scorers in the nation. But, he didn’t have the same kind of postseason success with the Falcons. He felt inspired standing with his new teammates and seeing the result of the program’s accomplishments.
The senior used that inspiration to fuel his double-digit performance, while adding a trio of rebounds and a pair of assists in the win.
N.C. State has preached all offseason that this team isn’t the same one that won five games in five days en route to the pinnacle of college basketball. This isn’t the same roster that won nine elimination games and nearly lost to last-place Louisville in the ACC Tournament opener, which featured now-Wolfpack players Mike James and Brandon Huntley-Hatfield. It isn’t the same one that surprised the entire basketball world and became one of the biggest Cinderella stories.
That’s OK. Last season’s Wolfpack was never supposed to be the team with the rings or the bragging rights. Maybe this new one can overachieve, too.
“Seeing (the banners) drop, I was like, ‘That’s crazy. I want to get to that,’” Hill said. “I asked a lot of questions, like how it feels to be in the Final Four. I asked all of them. That’s what I want to get to, so we’re working hard to try to get there.”