Smith’s double-double leads NC State to 66-45 win over Akron in Glenn Wilkes Classic

NC State defeats Akron 66-45

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Tracy Smith had 16 points and 11 rebounds as North Carolina State beat Akron 66-45 at the Glenn Wilkes Classic on Friday.

Dennis Horner also scored 16 points for the Wolfpack (2-0), who took control early and built a 43-21 halftime lead.

The Zips (0-2) got 10 points from Anthony Hitchens.

Horner had five points, including a 3, and C.J. Williams hit a pair of jumpers as N.C. State jumped out to a 17-4 lead 6 minutes into the game.

Smith had consecutive baskets to extend the Wolfpack advantage to 23-7 in the first half. Horner’s second 3 of the game made it 31-12 with 7 minutes left in the half.

Smith closed out his 14-point first half on a 3-point play with 25 seconds remaining. Horner had 10 during the opening 20 minutes.

N.C. State improved to 15-2 in November over the last four seasons under coach Sidney Lowe. The Wolfpack plays Austin Peay on Saturday.