By Devin McCullough
November 14:Despite a strong charge in the second half, UNC Pembroke lost to Wingate 70-58 at home to start the season. The Braves quickly fell behind due to early turnovers and a strong start by the Bulldogs, and Wingate’s 10-0 run to start the game set the tone.
Throughout the game, the Braves shot a lot of three-pointers, helping chip away at the lead from the outside. UNCP surged in a 23-18 third quarter that briefly changed momentum thanks to four triples from Natalie Evington and three from freshmen Abby Sheets.
Turnovers remained a story, both hurting and helping the Braves. While UNCP gave the ball away at key moments, they also made Wingate pay, scoring 17 points off the Bulldogs’ 16 turnovers to stay within reach. Tiana Spann delivered a standout performance with a career-high 14 points on efficient shooting, while also nearing a double-double with seven boards. Despite the effort and a more assertive offensive rhythm after halftime, the early gap was too much to overcome as Wingate pulled away in the fourth behind free throws and interior play.
November 15:UNC Pembroke faced one of the best teams in the country, No. 8 Coker, and it was evident. Coker established a 19-11 lead through tough defense and dominance in the paint, demonstrating the Cobras’ physicality and pressure from the first few minutes. Once more, the Braves mistakes were crucial, impeding the offensive flow and strengthening Coker’s transition strategy.
Anastasia Sinclair, who scored 22 points while attacking the rim and converting at the line, helped the Braves fight tenaciously. Newcomer Shaymiah Bailey was a bright light off the bench with a career-high nine rebounds, and freshman Abby Sheets remained flawless at the stripe (6-for-6). Still, the Cobras amassed 40 points in the paint and 17 second-chance points because of Coker’s size and effectiveness around the rim.
The Braves continued to show willingness to shoot from deep and get contributions from its bench, but the No. 8 team in the country controlled the tempo throughout. Despite spurts of momentum, particularly Sinclair’s scoring runs, the Braves couldn’t shrink the gap as Coker methodically closed out the game.
UNC Pembroke, now 0-2, will look to regroup on Wednesday when they travel to Fayetteville State for a 6 p.m. tipoff.