CORAL GABLES, Fla. (Interstat) — The Miami Hurricanes used a dominant first-quarter surge to set the tone and never looked back, cruising to a 79-47 victory over the Florida Atlantic Owls in a non-conference women’s basketball game Thursday night at the Watsco Center.

Miami’s offense was firing on all cylinders from the opening tip, sprinting out to a 24-9 lead after the first period. The Hurricanes’ efficient shooting and control of the paint proved too much for the visiting Owls to overcome. Miami improved its season record to a perfect 3-0, while Florida Atlantic fell to 2-1.

The Hurricanes built their early lead with a balanced and potent offensive attack. Ahnay Adams found Natalie Wetzel for a 3-pointer just before the first-quarter buzzer, capping a period where Miami shot over 50% from the floor. The Hurricanes continued to apply pressure, extending their advantage to 42-23 by halftime.

Miami’s offensive execution was a stark contrast to Florida Atlantic’s struggles. The Hurricanes finished the game shooting 54.2% from the field, connecting on 32 of 59 attempts. They were also efficient from beyond the arc, making 7 of 15 3-pointers. Defensively, Miami stifled the Owls, who managed just 30.4% shooting on 17 of 56 from the floor and a paltry 23.1% from 3-point range.

The statistical disparity was comprehensive. Miami outscored Florida Atlantic 44-22 in the paint and capitalized on turnovers, scoring 17 points off Owl miscues compared to just nine for FAU. The Hurricanes also controlled the glass, pulling down 12 offensive rebounds to Florida Atlantic’s six.

Ra Shaya Kyle led a deep and productive Miami scoring effort with 13 points, while also contributing two blocks. Amarachi Kimpson and Gal Raviv each added 14 points, with Raviv dishing out four assists. Grace Carstensen was the lone bright spot for Florida Atlantic, leading all scorers with 14 points, including three 3-pointers.

The second half offered no respite for the Owls, as Miami maintained its defensive intensity and offensive flow. The Hurricanes outscored FAU in both the third and fourth quarters to secure the 32-point victory.

Florida Atlantic will look to rebound on the road against South Alabama on Nov. 20. Miami, meanwhile, continues its homestand, next facing Davidson on Nov. 20 in a game to be played in Orlando.