- UNC Wilmington improves to 24-7 with 14-4 conference record
- Delaware suffers sixth consecutive defeat despite John Camden's 18 points
- Seahawks shoot 54% from field with three players scoring double digits
In a commanding Coastal Athletic Association matchup, UNC Wilmington solidified their postseason credentials with an 88-58 rout of Delaware at Trask Coliseum. The Seahawks' offensive efficiency proved unstoppable, converting 54% of field goals while holding their opponents to 39% shooting.
Sophomore guard Bo Montgomery emerged as the game's standout performer, delivering 23 points with 75% accuracy from two-point range. His first-half dominance set the tone, scoring 12 points during a 16-2 run that established permanent control. When Bo gets in rhythm, he elevates our entire defensive intensity,said head coach Takayo Siddle postgame.
The Seahawks' frontcourt complemented Montgomery's efforts through Harlan Obioha's 16-point, 7-rebound performance. The 6'10center capitalized on Delaware's weak interior defense, converting 75% of his shot attempts. Freshman Nolan Hodge added 12 points off the bench, maintaining perfect shooting from the field through strategic cuts to the basket.
Delaware's struggles continued despite John Camden's team-high 18 points. The Fightin' Blue Hens committed 14 turnovers leading to 21 Wilmington fastbreak points, exposing fundamental flaws in ball security. We're seeing the same breakdowns game after game,admitted Delaware coach Martin Ingelsby. Until we fix transition defense, results won't change.
Regional Insight: UNC Wilmington's 14 CAA wins mark their best conference performance since 2017, reflecting improved player development under Siddle. Local analysts credit the program's partnership with Cape Fear Sports Academy for enhancing recruits' defensive IQ - a key factor in their +8.2 average scoring margin.
Industry observers note three emerging CAA trends impacting this matchup:
- Teams with top-100 defensive ratings are 18-3 against spread in conference play
- Second-chance points differential accounts for 63% of CAA game outcomes
- Programs using NIL collectives report 22% better player retention
With the CAA tournament approaching, UNC Wilmington's balanced attack positions them as dark horse contenders. Their 42 points-in-the-paint against Delaware demonstrates crucial playoff-ready offense, while the Blue Hens' 2-11 road record signals urgent offseason staffing decisions.