The No. 8 Marquette University men’s basketball team (27-10) saw its 2023-24 season come to an end with a 67-58 loss against North Carolina State (25-14) in the Sweet 16 on Friday night in American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.
Guard Tyler Kolek led the way offensively with 17 points and 10 rebounds and guard Kam Jones chipped in 20 points.
Kolek says he was fortunate to be able to play deep into March.
The Golden Eagles struggled offensively, shooting just 33.3 percent from the floor and 4-of-31 from long distance. Marquette trailed by as many as 16 points in the second half, before closing the gap as close as six points with three minutes left. NC State had an answer every time, however, and the Golden Eagles could never get closer than two possessions.
Marquette guard Stevie Mitchell said the shots just weren’t falling.
Marquette trailed 37-24 at the intermission after shooting just 34.5 percent from the floor, including a 2-of-13 effort from behind the 3-point line. Kolek accounted for 14 of the team’s 24 points.
Marquette coach Shaka Smart said that this team has set a high standard for future Golden Eagles teams.
Notables:
- Marquette was competing in its 36th NCAA tournament and 17th Sweet 16 (first since Elite Eight appearance in 2013).
- Kolek’s 10 rebounds were a career high and his ninth double-double of the season.
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