WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Carolina University women's basketball closed out its pre-Christmas schedule on Thursday afternoon, hosting Georgia Gwinnett in its second Continental Athletic Conference (CAC) game of the season inside Williams Gymnasium. The Bruins entered the contest at 1–0 in league play, looking to build momentum and move to 2–0 in conference action, but Georgia Gwinnett pulled away after a tight opening quarter to secure a 61–47 win.
The opening period featured back-and-forth action as both teams traded baskets and momentum. Carolina shot efficiently early, but Georgia Gwinnett edged ahead late to take a slim 19–18 advantage at the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter proved to be the difference. Georgia Gwinnett outscored the Bruins 15–11 in the period, using defensive pressure and transition opportunities to extend its lead to 34–29 at halftime. Carolina continued to battle on the glass and generated quality looks, but struggled to convert consistently as the game progressed.
Coming out of the break, the visiting Grizzlies maintained control by holding Carolina to eight points in the third quarter while adding 13 of their own. Georgia Gwinnett's ability to capitalize on turnovers and score in the paint helped push the margin into double digits heading into the final frame.
Despite Carolina's continued effort in the fourth quarter, Georgia Gwinnett matched the Bruins point for point down the stretch, closing out the contest with a 14–10 advantage in the final period to seal the 61–47 result.
Jakyiiah Willis led Carolina with 14 points, while Dearia Page added 10 points off the bench. The Bruins knocked down eight three-pointers on the afternoon and continued to show growth defensively, forcing nine steals and contesting shots throughout the game.
Head coach Hannah Latiolais emphasized the learning opportunity for her team as conference play continues.
"I loved our energy and competitiveness early, and we showed that we can go toe-to-toe in conference play," Latiolais said. "This group is still learning how to sustain that level for all four quarters, but the effort and fight were there. We'll use this break to regroup, get healthier, and come back ready to keep building."
Carolina heads into the Christmas break with a 1–1 mark in CAC play and will resume conference action following the holiday as the Bruins look to continue developing consistency and momentum for the rest of their schedule.
