No. 10 NC State women's basketball (5-0) cruised to an 84-55 victory over Kentucky (2-3) in their 2023 Paradise Jam opener on Thursday afternoon. The Wolfpack led by double digits for nearly the entire game, showcasing their superior talent and teamwork.

NC State established control early, responding to Kentucky's opening bucket with a 15-0 run. The Wolfpack maintained their lead throughout the contest, extending it to as many as 42 points (76-34) after three quarters.

Madison Hayes led four Wolfpack double-figure scorers with 15 points, shooting an efficient 5-of-6 from the field and 3-of-4 from three-point range. Saniya Rivers added 13 points and three steals, while River Baldwin (11 points) and Mimi Collins (10 points) also contributed significantly.

NC State's 54.8 percent shooting mark (34-of-62) was their highest percentage of the season, and the Wolfpack once again displayed their ball-sharing prowess, assisting on over half of their made baskets with 19 assists. Aziaha James and Zoe Brooks each dished out five assists, and James also led the team in rebounds (8) as NC State dominated the boards 45-28.

NC State's newcomers also received valuable playing time. Mallory Collier (6 points) and Lizzy Williamson (4 points) set new career highs, while Katie Peneuta made her Wolfpack debut. Additionally, Brooks, Maddie Cox, and Laci Steele each added six points apiece in a game that saw all 12 Wolfpack players see the court and 10 find the scoring column.

NC State's offensive dominance was evident in the first half, scoring 31 points in the first quarter and 55 points in the first half alone, their highest such mark in a 20-minute span this season. The Wolfpack's 31-point lead (55-24) at the break was also their best halftime lead of the season. NC State shot 22-of-38 (.579) in the opening half alone and hit seven of their last eight field goal attempts of the second quarter to build up the comfortable lead.

With this victory, NC State extends their winning streak to five games and heads into the next round of the Paradise Jam with momentum on their side. Their balanced offense, strong rebounding, and deep bench will be key factors in their continued success.