UNC WBB uses lockdown defense to win NCAA Tournament opener on Friday
The UNC women's basketball team beat opponents throughout the year with lockdown defense. The Tar Heels did the same in their NCAA Tournament opener.
There's a hallmark of every good postseason team: strong defense. The UNC women's basketball squad, playing in its seventh-straight NCAA Tournament , has a strong defense that so many programs covet. In their NCAA Tournament opener on Friday night , the Tar Heels used that strong defense once again.
North Carolina held Western Illinois to 30 percent shooting overall and 13% from deep, winning 82-51 and proving itself capable of a deep run. UNC's (27-7, 14-4 ACC) greatest incoming challenge was Leathernecks (26-6, 16-4 OHC) forward Mia Nicastro , who averages 24 points per game. Nicastro thrived again, scoring 21 points and grabbing nine rebounds, but no one else on WIU scored in double-figures.
The Tar Heels enjoyed a solid shooting night in Carmichael Arena, with 43% doing the trick. Forward Nyla Harris thrived in one of her best games, recording a 17-point, 12-rebound double-double. Lanie Grant added 15 points, Nyla Brooks contributed 14 points off the bench, while Indya Nivar provided 11 points in the starting lineup.
Round 1 - WON. See YOU Sunday! @WellsFargo x #GoHeels pic.