WILMINGTON, N.C. (Interstat) — UNC Wilmington capitalized on free throws and forced 18 turnovers to defeat Monmouth 79-69 in a Colonial Athletic Association men’s basketball game Thursday night at Trask Coliseum.

The Seahawks went 28 for 35 from the foul line, while the Hawks attempted only 22 free throws. UNC Wilmington also recorded nine steals, leading to a decisive 21-5 advantage in points off turnovers. Monmouth’s Kavion McClain scored a game-high 27 points, but the Seahawks’ balanced attack, led by Nolan Hodge’s 16 points, secured their 23rd win. A crowd of 5,220 watched as UNC Wilmington improved to 23-4, and Monmouth fell to 14-13.