The scene following North Carolina State's (NC State) historic victory over Duke was nothing short of jubilant. Central to the celebration was DJ Burns Jr., a figure of undeniable charisma and joy. With a distinctive skip, Burns, alongside two teammates, proudly donned Final Four hats, each festooned with pieces of the game-winning basketball net. The triumph wasn't just a win; it was a moment of glory that found Burns capturing the celebratory mood with a selfie during the post-game press conference. Reflecting on his infectious positivity, Burns credits his upbringing, stating, "I was raised in a happy environment. I try to take that with me everywhere I go."
A Magical Run
NC State's journey to the Final Four has been nothing short of magical, particularly as the team entered the tournament as a double-digit seed. Many have drawn parallels between this squad and the legendary 1983 championship team, known for its 'Cinderella story.' This year's Wolfpack team has similarly captured the imagination of fans with a streak of nine consecutive wins in elimination games, including an impressive run through the ACC tournament where they claimed victory in five games over five consecutive days. Among their conquests were high-seeded adversaries like Marquette and Duke, showcasing an unwavering belief in themselves that Coach Kevin Keatts emphasized, "They never lost trust in who they are, and they've put together one of the most magical runs in the history of basketball."
For Keatts, the numerical seed of a team ceases to hold significance when reaching the Final Four, a sentiment echoed by the team's victorious march. "When you make it to the Final Four, people don't look at what your number is," he remarked, spotlighting the team's transcendent journey over bracket expectations.
The Center of Attention
At the heart of NC State's success is DJ Burns, a towering presence at 6-foot-9 and weighing over 275 pounds. His gameplay is not just about scoring; Burns has a unique ability to open the floor for his teammates, drawing significant attention from opponents and creating opportunities for others. Coach Keatts lauds Burns not only for his on-court performance but also for his magnetic personality, "DJ gets along with everyone. He has a personality that just brings you in." The impact of Burns and the team's success has resonated deeply with the community and alumni, uniting them in support of this remarkable run.
The Spotlight Intensifies
This year, both NC State's men's and women's basketball teams have achieved the extraordinary feat of reaching the Final Four, heightening the spotlight on players like Burns. With increased recognition comes additional pressure. However, Burns embraces this moment with gratitude, acknowledging the support of fans and the larger basketball community. "It's been kind of crazy," he admits, but remains thankful, "If you're supporting us, thank you."
As NC State advances, the story of DJ Burns Jr. encapsulates more than just athletic achievement; it's a narrative of positivity, teamwork, and community spirit. Burns expresses a simple yet profound outlook reflective of his journey, "When DJ gets going, it makes it easier for us guards on the perimeter. He draws so much attention. All we can do is stay ready: stay ready to shoot, stay ready to make a play." This philosophy epitomizes the Wolfpack's approach: a relentless readiness and resilience, making their run to the Final Four not just a sporting achievement, but a source of inspiration.
In closing, as the intensity of the national spotlight grows, so too does the bond between team, university, and community. The whispers of NC State mirroring the legendary '83 team grow louder with each game. Yet, amid the comparisons and expectations, Burns and his teammates remain focused, grounded in the happiness and unity that have characterized their remarkable season. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, the Wolfpack's tale of determination, unity, and joy continues to captivate and inspire, embodying the spirit of college basketball's most magical month.