UNCW Women’s Basketball Set to Face Coastal Carolina in Key Matchup
Wilmington, N.C. – The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) women’s basketball team is gearing up for a crucial game this Wednesday evening as they take on the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers in Conway, South Carolina. The game is scheduled for a 6 p.m. start at the HTC Center and will be streamed live on ESPN+
Recent Performance
UNCW enters the contest with a record of 6-4 after a hard-fought loss to West Georgia on December 5, falling 70-66. During that match, Taylor Henderson showcased her skills by scoring a game-high 18 points while grabbing eight rebounds, setting season highs in both categories. Evan Miller also shined with 17 points on 7-of-13 shooting, including three three-pointers. Other notable contributions came from Jania Hall with 11 points and four assists, and Ali Zelaya, who recorded six points along with a remarkable 16 rebounds.
Key Players
Ali Zelaya has been particularly impressive lately. Over the last three games, she has averaged 15.6 rebounds per game, leading the CAA with a total of 97 rebounds for the season (9.7 rebounds per game). Additionally, her defensive prowess is highlighted by her 23 blocks, which is also the highest in the CAA and ranks her 16th in the nation for blocks.
About Coastal Carolina
The Chanticleers are entering this game with a strong 7-1 record. Their most recent victory came in a decisive 73-46 road win against Presbyterian on Sunday. In that matchup, Kristin Williams led Coastal Carolina with 16 points, supported by Alancia Ramsey’s 15 and Jaylen Ponder’s 13 points off the bench. The team has shown a consistent offensive rhythm, shooting 47.5% from the field while outscoring opponents significantly, particularly during a standout second quarter that saw them rack up a 22-4 score against Presbyterian.
Head-to-Head History
This matchup holds significance in the history of both programs, with UNCW leading the all-time series 23-10 against Coastal Carolina. However, last season proved challenging for the Seahawks as they fell 73-59 at Trask Coliseum. Historically, UNCW enjoyed success between 2007 and 2010 when they claimed four consecutive victories in the rivalry.
Looking Ahead
Following the game against Coastal Carolina, UNCW will continue on the road to face their regional rival, East Carolina, at noon on Saturday, December 21. That game will also be available for streaming via ESPN+ as the Seahawks aim to improve their standing in the upcoming contests.
The excitement adjacent to this game is palpable. Both teams are looking to assert themselves early in the season, with UNCW hoping to bounce back from its recent heartbreak against West Georgia and Coastal Carolina riding high on a three-game winning streak. Fans can anticipate an engaging matchup as both teams vie for victory.
