NCSU Statistics Department Celebrated Historic Basketball Achievement

The North Carolina State University’s Statistics Department was abuzz with pride as it celebrated a historic milestone in the university’s sporting history – in March 2024, both the men’s and women’s basketball teams competed in the Final Four of their respective ACC tournaments. This not only captivated fans but also showcased the invaluable contributions of two individuals from the NCSU Statistics Department.

Graduate student Jackson Hayzlett and undergraduate Charles (Charlie) Cochran have emerged as pivotal figures in the team’s journey to sporting prominence. Their respective roles within the Statistics Department have enabled them to make significant strides in the realm of sports analytics, contributing to the strategic prowess and tactical acumen that propelled both basketball teams to unprecedented heights.

Charlie Cochran, an undergraduate student, reflects fondly on his experience as a video student scouting intern for the women’s basketball team. His primary responsibilities include analyzing opponent footage to identify strengths, weaknesses, and play patterns. Cochran’s meticulous approach to data analysis, coupled with his collaborative efforts with assistant coaches and the scout team, has played a crucial role in preparing the team for competitive matchups.

Central to Cochran’s success is the unfaltering support he receives from the Statistics Department. He acknowledges the department’s commitment to nurturing students’ interests beyond traditional coursework, citing the instrumental role played by his advisor, Dr. Spencer Muse, in facilitating his involvement with the women’s basketball team. Furthermore, Cochran credits the Sports Analytics Club, an entity supported by the department and advised by Dr. Jason Osbourne, for providing him with invaluable resources and networking opportunities.

Jackson Hayzlett, a graduate student within the Statistics Department, shares Cochran’s sentiment of pride and fulfillment in contributing to the men’s basketball team’s success. Hayzlett’s role as a graduate student has afforded him the opportunity to apply his statistical expertise in a practical setting, culminating in an unforgettable journey to the ACC Championship and Final Four. He emphasizes the invaluable role played by the Department of Statistics and the Master of Statistics program in equipping him with the necessary tools to excel in his endeavors.

Hayzlett’s journey serves as an inspiration to fellow statistics students, as he encourages them to pursue their passions and find fulfillment in their chosen careers. His dedication to the basketball program exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between academic excellence and athletic success, reinforcing NC State’s reputation as a powerhouse of intellectual prowess and sporting achievement.

As NC State reveled in the glory of its basketball triumphs, the Statistics Department stood tall and proud of its role in shaping the success stories of Cochran and Hayzlett. Their contributions symbolize the spirit of innovation, perseverance, and excellence that defines this “Think and Do” community. The Statistics Department remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering the next generation of analytical minds, poised to make an indelible mark on both academia and athletics. With each triumph on the court, the Wolfpack’s legacy grew stronger, guided by the unwavering spirit of determination and resilience that defines the NC State experience. Congrats to Cochran, Hayzlett, and the NC State men’s and women’s basketball teams!