NC State's leading scorer is on the move. Sophomore guard Paul McNeil, who emerged as one of the ACC's most dangerous shooters this past season, plans to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, according to an ESPN report. This leaves a significant scoring void for the Wolfpack as they head into a new era under a third head coach in three years.

McNeil's journey in Raleigh was one of patience and explosive payoff. He arrived in 2024 as the crown jewel of Kevin Keatts's final recruiting class, a top-60 national prospect who saw limited action as a freshman. After Keatts's departure, the North Carolina native chose to stay and play for new coach Will Wade—a decision that paid major dividends.

Under Wade, McNeil blossomed into a star. Starting 32 games, he led the team with 13.8 points per game and shattered the school's single-season record with 105 three-pointers, connecting at a blistering 43% clip from deep. His shooting prowess was a central reason for NC State's strong 18-6 start, highlighted by a 47-point, 10-rebound masterpiece against Texas Southern where he drained a program-record 11 three-pointers.

However, with Will Wade's recent departure for LSU, McNeil now faces the prospect of playing for a third different head coach in as many seasons. Instead, the 6-foot-5 guard with two years of eligibility remaining will test the transfer market, where he is expected to be one of the most coveted offensive weapons available. His next destination gains a proven scorer with a history of record-breaking performances, from the high school level right up to the ACC.