ACC Hoops: Wake Forest Defeats American, 88-74

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Nov. 3, 2025) — Under the bright lights of the Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons kicked off their 2025-26 campaign with a convincing 88-74 win over the American University Eagles on Monday night. (ESPN.com)

Game Recap & Key Stats

Wake Forest got off to a strong start and held on through the second half to secure the win. According to the box score:

• First half: WF led 46-34. (ACC)
• Final score: Wake Forest 88, American 74. (ESPN.com)
• The Deacons shot 47.7% (31-of-65) from the field and 28.0% (7-of-25) from three-point range; they made 19-of-24 free throws (~79.2%). (ACC)
• They pulled down 38 rebounds while the Eagles grabbed 33. Turnovers: Wake 11, American 18. (ESPN.com)
• Points in the paint: Wake 46. (ACC)
• Bench & depth: Several players contributed double-digit scoring. (si.com)

Wake Forest used a 13-2 run in the first half to build separation and then managed the lead through the second half despite a few pushes by American. (Wake Forest University Athletics)

Stand-Out Performers

• Mekhi Mason (Wake): 20 points, 10 rebounds—his double-double helped anchor the team. (CBS Sports)
• Tre’Von Spillers (Wake): Also scored 20 points, efficient (8-of-11 shooting), added 8 rebounds. (ESPN.com)
• Juke Harris (Wake): 18 points and 7 rebounds; his scoring in the second half helped maintain Wake’s momentum. (CBS Sports)
• From the opponent’s side: Wyatt Nausadis (American) led with 22 points on 8-of-16 shooting and 4-of-8 from three-point range. (American University)

Coach Forbes & Player Quotes

While a detailed post-game transcript of head coach Steve Forbes’ remarks hasn’t been widely published, Forbes entered the season emphasizing a more dynamic, up-tempo style and team cohesion. (charlotteobserver.com)
In recent media, Forbes said:

“I’m for it… One thousand percent.”
— speaking about his embrace of the transfer portal and the program’s evolution. (charlotteobserver.com)

From the team’s commentary:

• Nate Calmese: According to an independent recap, point guard Nate Calmese had “10 points, 9 assists and just 2 turnovers,” showing leadership in the opener. (Blogger So Dear)
• On the performance and opening game: The recap noted:

“The thing that gave me a lot of confidence in this team was the ball movement… They were swinging the ball around and finding the opening man.” (Blogger So Dear)

What It Means & Looking Ahead

This win provides the Deacons with a strong foundation. Winning the opener — especially with balanced scoring, solid rebounding, and depth showing — sets a positive tone. Key takeaways:

• The team posted 20 assists on 31 made baskets: a sign of improved ball movement and teamwork. (Blogger So Dear)
• While the three-point shooting was weak (only 7-of-25), the inside game (46 points in the paint) compensated.
• Defense and limiting turnovers (11) helped the margin stay healthy.

For American University, the night showed promise from their lead scorer, but they were outmuscled in key phases by Wake’s depth and transition ability.

With the Deacons now 1-0 on the season, the focus turns to building consistency, maintaining defensive intensity, and improving from the perimeter. If they continue to spread the scoring, play committed defense, and execute ball movement, the expectations for the season will rise.

Final Word

In the opener, Wake Forest delivered a performance that blended individual talent, collective movement, and physicality. Mason and Spillers showed they can lead this team; the supporting cast answered. The line read 88-74, but the story is a team stepping forward. The Deacons looked like a unit ready to compete, and if they keep this up, the 2025-26 campaign may offer something special.