WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Interstat) — The unbeaten Wake Forest women’s basketball team looks to continue its strong start to the season when it hosts the Mercer Bears on Thursday at Joel Coliseum.

The Demon Deacons (3-0) have won their first three games by an average of 23.3 points, most recently routing Hampton 77-48 on Sunday. Raven Preston led the way with 13 points, six rebounds, four assists and two blocks, while Grace Oliver added 12 points and seven rebounds.

Mercer (2-1) arrives after a 61-56 home victory over Gardner-Webb on Monday. Micah O’Dell scored a game-high 20 points in the win. The Bears’ season-opening win at UNC Asheville was followed by a 21-point loss to Clemson.

The game represents a step up in competition for Wake Forest, which has played all its games at home so far. Mercer will be looking for its first road win of the young season.

Following this contest, Wake Forest remains home to face North Carolina Central on Nov. 20. Mercer continues a road swing at Jackson State on Nov. 19.