LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. – The Carolina University Women's Basketball team saw its 2025-26 season come to a close Thursday evening in the opening round of the Continental Athletic Conference (CAC) Tournament, falling 80-61 to Washington Adventist at the Convocation Center on February 26.
Entering the tournament as the No. 5 seed, Carolina (7-19) matched up with No. 4 Washington Adventist (15-8) in a hard-fought quarterfinal contest. Under first-year head coach Hannah Latiolais, the Bruins have emphasized growth and development throughout the season, showing steady improvement from day one through postseason play.
Carolina came out strong in the first quarter, shooting 35 percent from the field and knocking down five three-pointers to build a 19-12 lead after the opening period. Jakyiiah Willis sparked the early offense with three first-quarter triples, while Angelina Jordan added a pair from beyond the arc to help the Bruins seize early momentum.
The Bruins extended their lead to as many as 11 points midway through the second quarter and carried a 35-28 advantage into halftime. Carolina's defensive intensity and rebounding presence, led by MeiLani Patterson in the paint, limited Washington Adventist's early rhythm.
Washington Adventist responded in the third quarter, outscoring the Bruins 31-14 to shift the momentum. The host squad capitalized on second-chance opportunities and turnovers, turning a halftime deficit into a double-digit lead heading into the final period. Despite Carolina's continued effort and resilience in the fourth quarter, Washington Adventist maintained control down the stretch to secure the 80-61 result.
Angelina Jordan and Mya Smith paced the Bruins with 14 points apiece. MeiLani Patterson recorded a dominant performance on the glass with 18 rebounds to go along with 11 points, while Dearia Page contributed 10 points, nine rebounds, and six assists.
Carolina finished the contest with 45 total rebounds and 16 second-chance points, continuing to demonstrate its physical presence inside.
Though the Bruins were unable to replicate last year's men's basketball postseason run as a lower seed, the program's upward trajectory under Latiolais remains evident.
"I am incredibly proud of this group," said head coach Hannah Latiolais. "With a new coaching staff and a new team, we've battled all year long. From the first practice to tonight, this team has grown tremendously. The record doesn't fully reflect the fight, unity, and improvement we've seen. This foundation is strong, and we're excited about what's ahead for Carolina Women's Basketball."
The Bruins conclude the 2025-26 campaign with continued momentum and a renewed sense of purpose as the program looks ahead to building on a season defined by resilience, growth, and belief.
