While you can't change the past, you certainly can control the present.
That's exactly what Courtney Banghart's team did on Wednesday night in Chapel Hill, as the UNC women's basketball program bounced back nicely following this past weekend's overtime loss to Louisville with a blowout victory over UNC Wilmington.
Right out of the gate, the Tar Heels left little doubt. They put their foot on the gas right out of the gate, scoring 27 points over the first 10 minutes of play to take a 15-point lead after just one quarter of action.
The UNC women's basketball program wasn't satisfied with its early 15-point advantage. They responded by outscoring the visiting Seahawks 20-6 in the second quarter to put the game out of reach before the first half came to a close.
Give it up for Nyla Brooks!
The five-star freshman, a McDonald's All-American, only played eight minutes in her team's loss to Louisville.
While some top-tier talents would sulk and would be upset that they didn't see the court much, Nyla Brooks keeps grinding every day to get better. The poise and maturity from this freshman is admirable, and serves as a great example for other student-athletes to follow.
When Banghart called her number, Brooks was more than ready to step up. She finished the night scoring in double-digits, leading the Tar Heels with 16 points.
Defense is the Key
UNC Wilmington didn't connect on a three-pointer until early on in the fourth quarter.
It wasn't by a lack of trying, as they missed 11 three-point attempts prior to their first make.
North Carolina's defense made life difficult for UNC Wilmington, holding the Seahawks to under 30% shooting from the floor. The UNC women's basketball program also forced 19 turnovers, as the effort defensively was impressive.
An All-Around Effort
Every player saw game action for the UNC women's basketball program, with 10 players scoring at least one point. It was encouraging to see Blanca Thomas and Taissa Quieroz, both of whom have missed time due to injury, play a significant role off the bench in this blowout victory.
We also love anytime Sydney Barker gets into the game and makes an immediate impact, recording a steal and a score essentially 30 seconds after she checked into the game.
Notable Efforts
UNC Wilmington didn't have any answers for Ciera Toomey, who finished the night with 15 points, six rebounds, and three blocks. Indya Nivar fell just short of a double-double, scoring 10 points while reeling in 9 rebounds over just 20 minutes of action.
What's Next?
The UNC women's basketball program has one non-conference game remaining. Charleston Southern will travel to Chapel Hill on Sunday for an afternoon clash with the Tar Heels. Following that contest, North Carolina will have eight days off for Christmas break before heading to Boston College to dive fully into ACC play.