The North Carolina women’s basketball team dropped its ACC opener on the road against No. 11 Florida State (13-1, 1-0 ACC) on Sunday. The Tar Heels (10-4, 0-1 ACC) were never really in the 103-65 blowout.
What happened?
After a tight first period, Florida State blew open the game with a dominant second quarter. The Seminoles outscored the Tar Heels 35-15 in the deciding frame, establishing a lead that proved to be insurmountable.
Who stood out?
Imani Wright and Shakayla Thomas combined for 55 points to lead Florida State to the big win. Thomas, who was named to the preseason All-ACC team, added 13 rebounds to register a double double. Guards Nausia Woolfolk, A.J. Alix and Nicole Ekhomu also had double-digit scoring games, the 13th time in 14 games at least four Seminoles have scored in double figures.
Meanwhile, North Carolina struggled offensively under stifling Seminole defense. Paris Kea was the high-scoring Tar Heel of the game with 17 points. Three Tar Heels scored in double digits.
When was it decided?
That pivotal second quarter decided the outcome of this one. Florida State used a 15-1 run to open the period and effectively put the game away. By the time Paris Kea knocked down a jumper with 6:42 left, the Tar Heels were down 16 points in a hostile environment and out of the game.
