Tue Feb 03 00:50:00 UTC 2026: # UNC and NC State Women’s Basketball Coaches Explore Expanding Rivalry

The Story:
The article highlights the intense rivalry between the University of North Carolina (UNC) Tar Heels and NC State Wolfpack women’s basketball teams, suggesting a desire from both programs to increase the frequency of their matchups. UNC coach Courtney Banghart has publicly expressed interest in exploring options for a second regular-season game, potentially at a neutral site in Greensboro, North Carolina, with opportunities for players to benefit from NIL deals related to the event. The article also spotlights Zanai Barnett-Gay of Navy, and notes potential coaching changes at Boston College and UCF.

Key Points:

  • The UNC-NC State rivalry in women’s basketball is considered more intense than UNC-Duke.
  • Currently, UNC and NC State play only once in the regular season due to ACC scheduling changes following conference expansion.
  • UNC coach Courtney Banghart wants to find a way to play NC State twice per season, potentially with a neutral-site game.
  • The article mentions the potential for a non-conference game to be a significant revenue generator.
  • The article also spotlights Zanai Barnett-Gay, a standout player for the Navy Midshipmen.
  • Potential coaching changes are expected at Boston College and UCF.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UNC and NC State women’s basketball programs recognize the financial and competitive value of their rivalry.
  • Scheduling changes in the ACC due to expansion are prompting creative solutions to maintain important rivalries.
  • NIL opportunities are increasingly being considered in scheduling decisions.
  • Mid-major programs like Navy offer a contrast to the transfer portal-driven landscape of college basketball.

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