The UNC women’s basketball team made quite the statement on Friday afternoon, as it defeated the No. 17 South Florida Bulls 71-69 at the Paradise Jam Tournament in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

After struggling against top competition in recent years, the Tar Heels (5-1) now have a win over a ranked opponent they can boast on this season’s resume.

UNC had not beaten a ranked opponent since it knocked off No. 18 NC State back in January of 2017.

Guard Stephanie Watts led the charge with a team-high 24 points, including 18 during the first half to give the Tar Heels a 35-31 lead at the break.

UNC also received 14 points in the game from both sophomore forward Janelle Bailey and senior guard Paris Kea.

Bailey was instrumental in a hot start to the second half, which saw the Tar Heels make 10 of their first 11 shots.

With five minutes left in the game, UNC led by 12 points but USF battled back down the stretch to make the final score a bit closer.

As a result, the Tar Heels now have a signature victory already as they look to make a grand re-entrance to the NCAA Tournament later this season.

Up Next:

Now UNC will face undefeated Kentucky (6-0) in the Paradise Jam finals on Saturday at 1 p.m.

 

 

Photo via UNC Athletics

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