WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Interstat) — A surging Wake Forest women’s basketball team looks to continue its strong start when it hosts a Miami (Fla.) squad seeking consistency in an Atlantic Coast Conference matchup on Thursday, Dec. 18.

The Demon Deacons (10-2) enter Joel Memorial Coliseum having won eight of their last nine games, including a narrow 57-56 victory over Georgia Tech last Sunday. Wake Forest has relied on a balanced attack and stout defense, holding opponents to an average of 56.2 points per game during that nine-game stretch.

Guard Aurora Sørbye has been a key facilitator for Wake Forest, averaging 6.3 points and 3.1 assists. She is coming off a 14-point, 4-assist performance against the Yellow Jackets. Forward Grace Oliver, who also scored 14 points in the win, provides a steady interior presence.

The visiting Hurricanes (6-4) have experienced uneven results, alternating wins and losses over their past six contests. They are looking to rebound from an 87-61 home loss to North Carolina State on Sunday. Miami’s offense has shown explosiveness, scoring 99 points in a win over Georgia State on Dec. 7, but has also been held under 65 points in four of its losses.

Miami’s fortunes often follow the scoring of guard Vittoria Blasigh. She erupted for 22 points in 31 minutes against the Wolfpack and dropped 18 points in just 19 minutes in the rout of Georgia State. Containing Blasigh will be a primary focus for the Wake Forest defense.

Historically, the Hurricanes have dominated the series, winning 15 of the last 16 meetings. However, this Wake Forest team presents one of its most formidable challenges in recent years. The Demon Deacons’ strong record is built on a favorable early schedule, but their resilience in close games, evidenced by three wins by five points or fewer, could prove vital in conference play.

For Miami, establishing an inside game with center Ra Shaya Kyle, who had 12 points against NC State, alongside backcourt mate Ahnay Adams, will be crucial to easing the pressure on Blasigh and challenging Wake Forest’s defense.

Thursday’s contest opens the ACC schedule for both teams and serves as a final non-conference tune-up for the bulk of their league slates. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EST.