Hosted by R. Cory Smith and Michael Clark, the Pack Pride Podcast is the official podcast of Pack Pride. A syndicated partner of 247Sports, Pack Pride is an independent publication that brings you the latest on NC State athletics. You can find us at www.PackPride.com.

Exactly two months ago, Michael O'Connell officially entered the transfer portal after three years with Stanford. Just over one month ago, he committed and signed with NC State to become a part of the Wolfpack for his final two seasons at the collegiate level.

The journey that's gotten him to this point has been a long and arduous one. After signing with Maryland to play lacrosse -- where his brother won a national championship -- O'Connell opted to go the basketball route due to sitting out during the COVID pandemic and landed his only Power 5 offer from the Cardinal.

O'Connell went on to start three straight years at point guard for Stanford and average 6.3 points, 3.2 assists and shoot 40 percent from the field. He was also able to graduate from one of the most prestigious universities in the country in that short span of time. 

Just days before he arrives on campus with the Wolfpack, O'Connell sat down with Pack Pride to discuss his journey to Raleigh and why he chose the Wolfpack. He also breaks down his fit in Kevin Keatts' system, his relationship with Joel Justus, expectations for his time with NC State and much more!

This podcast is sponsored by Scott Wood and the Scott Wood Home Lending Team. Reach out to the Wolfpack legend about your home loan at scottwood15.com today!


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