Duke Women's Basketball Dominates NCAA Opener

0:00You're listening to Durham News today, powered by the Daily News Now. Duke's third-seated women's basketball team started their NCAA tournament strong with an 81-64 victory over 14th-seated. College of Charleston at Cameron Indoor Stadium. This win came a day after the top ranked men's team barely escaped their opener against Siena, admitting they took the game too lightly. The Blue Devils controlled the pain from the start, using their size and speed to build a big lead. Toby Fornier led with 24 points, Delaney Thomas added 19, and Jordan Wood chipped in 17 on perfect shooting, including five. From three point range, by halftime, Duke had 45 points, matching Charleston's total for the half. Players made it clear they watched the men's close call and vowed not to repeat it. They focused on finding advantages inside, which opened up shots from outside, while praising teammates like Wood for her steady contributions in big moments.

1:00Duke's defense sealed the deal, forcing turnovers and holding the cougars to just 26% shooting over long stretches. Charleston mounted a lay push in the fourth quarter, led by Taren Barbos 36 points, but Duke rested starters and held firm despite some. Fouls and turnovers. With this solid performance under their belt, the Blue Devils advanced to face the winner of Baylor vs. Nebraska on Sunday, carrying momentum into. The next round.