How Madison Hayes has embraced a new role in final season with No. 14 NC State

Just before Madison Hayes took the floor for what was viewed as her senior night game against Wake Forest last March, the Wolfpack’s star surprised nearly everyone inside Reynolds Coliseum: she was returning for one more season at NC State.  That was a welcomed gift in the transfer portal era, where players have the freedom to depart at the drop of a hat, looking for a new opportunity elsewhere. But for Hayes, the Pack was the program that provided that chance. She transferred in from Mississippi State after her freshman campaign with the Bulldogs, and has been one of NC State’s top guards ever since.  When Wolfpack coach Wes Moore found out Hayes would run it back for one more season, he was overjoyed. The Pack’s “glue” was going to be pivotal in the 2024-25 campaign.  So far, she has been. Hayes has become one of NC State’s go-to players this season as the Wolfpack looks to return to its ACC Tournament Championship ways and has its sights set on another trip to the Final Four.  But even though Hayes has been a key cog in what NC State has done this season, as she was a year ago in the team’s run to Cleveland, she’s in a new role as the Wolfpack’s starting small forward. Hayes, a selfless person on and off the court, was willing to do anything to help the Pack win — including a position switch during her final collegiate season.