SYRACUSE, N.Y. (Interstat) — The Syracuse women’s basketball team opened its season with a decisive 74-50 victory over Stony Brook on Tuesday night at the Carrier Dome, using a dominant first quarter to set the tone before an announced crowd of 2,052.

The Orange established control early, outscoring the Seawolves 22-8 in the opening period. Stony Brook struggled to find its offensive rhythm against a stifling Syracuse defense, which forced 18 turnovers and blocked six shots. The Seawolves were held to just 30% shooting from the floor, making 18 of their 60 attempts.

Syracuse’s offense was fueled by its efficiency inside, outscoring Stony Brook 54-24 in the paint. Despite a poor shooting night from beyond the arc, where they made only one of 12 attempts, the Orange compensated by shooting 49.2% overall from the field. They also capitalized on Stony Brook’s mistakes, scoring 20 points off turnovers.

Dominique Darius led a balanced Syracuse scoring attack with 12 points and eight rebounds. Shy Hawkins provided a spark off the bench with 13 points, while Laila Phelia also chipped in 12 points, five rebounds and four assists. Uche Izoje added 11 points and two blocks, and Journey Thompson controlled the glass with eight points and seven rebounds.

For Stony Brook, Caitlin Frost was the lone player to reach double figures, finishing with a game-high 19 points and five rebounds. Melissa Mwanza contributed eight points and seven rebounds. The Seawolves’ offense was hampered by their inability to maintain possession, committing 18 turnovers against 11 assists.

Syracuse never trailed, building a 37-21 lead by halftime. While Stony Brook showed more life after the break, scoring 16 points in the third quarter, they were unable to mount a significant challenge as the Orange consistently answered any Seawolves’ push.

The game was the season opener for both teams. Syracuse begins the year 1-0, while Stony Brook starts 0-1. The Orange are next scheduled to host Albany on Friday. Stony Brook will look for its first win when it returns home to face Molloy, also on Friday.