C.J. Luster II ignited the UNC Wilmington offense in the season opener, scoring 21 points to lead the Seahawks to a decisive 101-65 victory over Mount Olive on Monday. The matchup, held in Wilmington, N.C., showcased UNC Wilmington’s offensive firepower as they dismantled the Trojans from the opening tip. Luster’s performance was the centerpiece of the blowout, demonstrating the team’s readiness for the upcoming slate of games.
Seahawks dominate season opener with balanced attack and stifling defense
The Seahawks’ success was built on a well-rounded effort beyond Luster’s scoring. Patrick Wessler provided crucial interior presence, contributing 14 points on efficient 6-of-9 shooting and grabbing 12 rebounds, while Jahnathan Lamothe added 12 points. Luster also displayed sharp perimeter shooting, hitting 6 of his 13 three-point attempts. In contrast, Mount Olive struggled to keep pace, with Christian Ananaba leading the Trojans with 15 points and Chaise Smith adding 13, but the deficit grew too large to overcome.
As both teams look ahead, UNC Wilmington will test their depth and execution against a tougher opponent next. The Seahawks are scheduled to visit East Carolina on Saturday for their next contest. This dominant start sets a high bar for the season, highlighting the team’s ability to control the game’s tempo and exploit defensive mismatches early.
Source: Yahoo Sports
