There was never a doubt in this one.
The UNC women's basketball program took an early lead and never looked back, securing a 35-point victory over NC Central on Thursday night in Greensboro.
After holding just a six point lead after one quarter of play, the Tar Heels turned it up a notch in the second quarter. Behind four made three pointers from freshman Nyla Brooks, North Carolina outscored the host Aggies 29-13 over the quarter of action, a run that would secure a nice cushion to work with heading to the locker room.
The third quarter was much the same, as North Carolina outscored NC Central 26-12. It was difficult for the Aggies to keep up with the Tar Heels, especially considering they shot 45% from the floor and 35% from beyond-the-arc.
North Carolina connected on 12 three-point field goals, marking the most they've connected on in a single game thus far this season. They also found a way to force 26 turnovers, resulting in 33 points on the other end of the floor.
Four Tar Heels scored in double-figures, led by Brooks and Nivar, who had 14 points apiece. Nivar recorded a double-double performance, finishing the night with 10 rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks in an all-around strong effort.
Elina Aarnisalo got the offense going right out of the gate, scoring six early points en route to a 13-point outing. The transfer from UCLA connected on six of her eight shot attempts from the floor. Ciera Toomey rounded out the double-figure scorers with 12 points of her own, as 10 different Tar Heels connected on at least one field goal.
Yes, 18 turnovers won't sit well with Courtney Banghart and her staff, and the insane foul trouble is also something the Tar Heels would've loved to have avoided. However, you have to be extremely encouraged by the UNC women's basketball program's effort, as they came out of the gate firing and carried that momentum until the final buzzer sounded.
For the first time since November 6, the UNC women's basketball program will return home to take on UNC Greensboro in a Sunday afternoon non-conference clash. Tip-off on November 23 is scheduled for 6:00 PM EST.