Wake Forest Women's Basketball Team Defeats Charlotte in Women's NIT

The Wake Forest women's basketball team continued its winning streak over the Charlotte 49ers, and came home from Halton Arena with a 72-69 victory. The Deacs found themselves trailing by as many as 8 points in the second half, but outscored Charlotte by 11 over the final 17 minutes and advanced to the second round of the Women's NIT.

Wake Forest won this game because they outrebounded Charlotte by 11, and had 3 fewer turnovers. Charlotte had the advantage in shooting percentage (42% overall and 47% from three) compared to Wake's 39% overall and 28% from three. Charlotte also made 14-17 free throws, while Wake Forest made 15-26. However, Wake's rebounding ability allowed the Deacs to attempt 10 more field goal attempts, so that offset the lower shooting percentage.

The Deacs had a balanced scoring attack. Amber Campbell led the way with 16 points, but Ariel Stephenson, Elisa Penna, and Destini Walker each chipped in 11 points. The good news for Wake Forest fans? Each of those players is either a freshman or a sophomore. Penn also battled on the glass and had 12 rebounds. Milan Quinn scored 9 points. Meanwhile, Charlotte had 3 players combined for 49 of the team's 69 points. It's difficult to win when teams can only rely on several players to score.

The Lady Deacs will play the winner of Friday's contest between Florida Gulf Coast and Bethune-Cookman. Game times and locations for the second game will be announced following tomorrow's games.