CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — In an impressive display, Lexi Donarski highlighted the evening with 21 points, leading the No. 15 North Carolina women’s basketball team to a dominant 77-50 triumph over UNC Wilmington on Thursday night.

Donarski, who is transferring from Iowa State where she averaged 14 points per game last season, showcased her scoring ability by hitting 8 of 14 shots overall, including 5 of 11 from beyond the arc. Reniya Kelly contributed significantly as well, sinking three 3-pointers and ending with 14 points for the Tar Heels, who improved to a 2-0 record this season.

Blanca Thomas was a force on the boards, securing 10 of the team’s total 50 rebounds, while Grace Townsend stood out with eight assists in the game. Alyssa Ustby, arriving at the match with a notable 965 career rebounds and 38 double-doubles to her name, had a challenging outing against the Seahawks, wrapping up the game with nine rebounds and seven points on a 2-of-13 shooting performance.

For UNC Wilmington, Taylor Henderson led their scoring efforts with 15 points, including two 3-pointers, but the team struggled overall, finishing with a shooting percentage of just 30%, converting 17 of 57 attempts from the field.

North Carolina set a commanding tone right from the start, launching into a quick 12-2 lead. They further extended their advantage with a strong second quarter, outscoring the Seahawks 20-6, and held a substantial 40-16 lead at halftime. Kelly had a noteworthy contribution with nine points, all from her three successful 3-pointers, while teammate Maria Gakdeng netted all eight of her points in the first half.

With this victory, the Tar Heels maintained their perfect record against UNC Wilmington in head-to-head matchups, now leading the series 6-0.