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The Daily Tar Heel

UNC women's basketball shows promise in 72-59 win over Wisconsin

The North Carolina women’s basketball team defeated Wisconsin 72-59 during the annual ACC-Big Ten Women’s Challenge. UNC dominated the court, showing this year was going to be different.

What happened?

The Tar Heels (6-1) started off strong against the Badgers (2-6), scoring 23 points in the first quarter. Between sophomore guard Destinee Walker scoring three buckets and sophomore guard Stephanie Watts knocking down two 3-pointers, North Carolina gained an early edge of Wisconsin. While possession was even during the first half, UNC maximized scoring opportunities, going into halftime with a 47-25 lead.

Wisconsin came out pounding after halftime, closing the gap of the game. The Badgers scored 34 points during the second half. But it wasn’t enough to stop the Tar Heels. Despite a low-scoring second half, UNC held onto the lead, playing a scrappy game. The Tar Heels sought ways to optimize their shots while only having nine turnovers.

With this win, North Carolina continues its winning record as well as having a 7-3 record for this challenge. The win contributed to the ACC adding another tally to their record for this tournament.

Who stood out?

During the first half, redshirt sophomore guard Paris Kea stood out, with her and Watts scoring 12 points apiece. She also hit a buzzer beater, sending UNC into the half with 22-point lead.

Watts picked up on the momentum during the second half, earning her fourth double-double of the season. She ended the game scoring 23 points.

Walker ultimately sealed the win for the Tar Heels, as she opened and closed the fourth quarter with 3-pointers.

When was it decided?

Kea’s buzzer-beating shot before the end of the first half left a strong message on the court — this was a different team. The jump shot set the tone for the second half, ultimately securing the win for the Tar Heels.

Why does it matter?

North Carolina continued its success in the ACC-Big Ten Challenge, with this win making UNC 7-3 in the previous 10 matchups.

After coming off an unsuccessful season last year, the Tar Heels show improvement already, coming into this tournament with a 5-1 record. Last season, the team entered the tournament 5-3 and lost the game to Northwestern. With the win, North Carolina builds momentum for a promising season.

Where do they play next?

The Tar Heels will host Elon on Sunday at 5:30 p.m.

@mwc13_3

sports@dailytarheel.com

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