BERKELEY, Calif. (Interstat) — In a non-conference women’s basketball matchup Sunday, the Charlotte 49ers used a dominant second-quarter surge to pull away from the Oakland Golden Grizzlies, securing a 66-41 victory at Haas Pavilion.

The game remained competitive through the opening period, with Oakland holding a narrow 18-16 lead after the first quarter. However, the contest turned decisively in the second frame as Charlotte’s defense clamped down, holding the Golden Grizzlies to just seven points while the 49ers’ offense erupted for 20. The 20-7 quarter gave Charlotte a 36-25 halftime advantage, a lead they would not relinquish.

Charlotte maintained control throughout the second half, outscoring Oakland 16-8 in the third quarter and 14-8 in the fourth to seal the win. The victory improved Charlotte’s season record to 3-3, while Oakland fell to 2-3.

Zoe Best led all scorers and was the engine for the Charlotte offense. The 5-foot-10 guard from St. Louis, Missouri, poured in 19 points, showcasing her all-around game by adding eight rebounds, three assists and a block in 31 minutes of action.

Oakland was led by Filippa Goula, a 5-foot-7 guard from Ano Liosia, Greece, who finished with a team-high 13 points and five rebounds. Makenzie Luehring, a 5-foot-6 guard from Jackson, Wisconsin, provided a steady hand for the Golden Grizzlies, contributing seven points, seven rebounds and four assists.

Charlotte’s defensive presence was felt inside, anchored by 6-foot-4 center Caitlin Staley of Augusta, Georgia. In just 13 minutes, Staley grabbed seven rebounds and swatted four Oakland shot attempts. The 49ers also received significant contributions from their backcourt. Taliah Cornish, a 5-foot-7 guard from Atlanta, Georgia, dished out a game-high six assists, while Princess Anderson, a 5-foot-7 guard from Beaumont, Texas, chipped in eight points.

For Oakland, 5-foot-11 forward Layla Gold of Indianapolis, Indiana, added eight points, five rebounds and two blocks.

The game began with Oakland showing early fight, but Charlotte’s decisive second-quarter run established a double-digit cushion that proved insurmountable. The 49ers consistently generated offense from their defense, capitalizing on Oakland turnovers and missed shots to build their lead.

The Golden Grizzlies will look to rebound on the road against Michigan State on Sunday, Nov. 23. Charlotte returns home to face Wofford on Saturday, Nov. 22.