DURHAM, N.C. (Interstat) — The UNC Wilmington women’s basketball team used a dominant third-quarter surge to secure its first victory of the season, defeating North Carolina Central 78-68 on Friday night at McLendon-McDougald Gymnasium.

In a game defined by defensive pressure and offensive efficiency, the Seahawks improved to 1-1 overall, while the Eagles fell to 0-2.

UNC Wilmington seized control of the contest with a 27-point third quarter, turning a narrow 35-25 halftime advantage into a commanding 62-40 lead heading into the final period. The Seahawks’ defense was the catalyst, forcing 25 total turnovers and converting them into 23 points. They also recorded 16 steals and five blocks.

Rori Cox led all scorers with 21 points for UNC Wilmington, adding eight rebounds in 25 minutes of action. Icyss Storm, a Durham native, contributed 14 points and four rebounds, while Kate Hollifield and Paige Smith each added 10 points. Smith also dished out four assists.

North Carolina Central mounted a fierce comeback attempt in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Seahawks 28-16, but the early deficit proved too large to overcome. The Eagles were led by Aniya Finger, who scored 19 points and grabbed six rebounds off the bench. Aysia Hinton finished with 12 points.

Despite the late push, the Eagles struggled with ball security and from the free-throw line, shooting just 14 of 27. UNC Wilmington also had difficulties at the charity stripe, making 25 of 36 attempts, but their superior ball movement was evident as they tallied 16 assists compared to just six for North Carolina Central.

The game began as a defensive struggle, with UNC Wilmington taking a 21-10 lead after the first quarter. The Seahawks maintained their advantage through a lower-scoring second period before their explosive third-quarter performance created the necessary separation.

UNC Wilmington finished the game with an offensive rating of 99.9, scoring 78 points on 78 possessions. North Carolina Central managed an offensive rating of 80.2, scoring 68 points on 85 possessions. The Eagles did hold a significant 34-18 advantage in points in the paint.

An announced crowd of 682 watched the non-conference matchup.

UNC Wilmington will look to build on the victory when it hosts Coastal Carolina on Wednesday, Nov. 12. North Carolina Central seeks its first win of the season when it hosts UNC Asheville on Thursday, Nov. 13.