COLUMBIA, Sc. - The College of Coastal Georgia women's basketball team opened the 2025–26 season in dominant and historic fashion, cruising to a 96–73 win over Columbia International University in Columbia, South Carolina. From the opening tip, the Mariners displayed relentless energy, turning defense into offense and overwhelming the Rams on both ends of the court.
Coastal Georgia's defensive pressure was the story of the night, as the Mariners recorded 25 steals — the most by the program since 2012 — and forced an incredible 48 turnovers. Those takeaways turned into 39 points off turnovers, helping the Mariners maintain control from start to finish. The team's up-tempo pace and attacking mindset led to a staggering 100 field-goal attempts, the highest total since 2012, and their 96 points marked the most in a single game since 2020.
The Mariners raced out to a 35–16 lead after the first quarter, fueled by aggressive on-ball defense and efficient scoring from a balanced rotation. The team's depth was on full display, with every player contributing to the flow of the game and 10 different players recording a steal. Coastal's bench proved to be a major weapon, pouring in 63 of the team's 96 total points and keeping the energy high throughout all four quarters.
Freshman guard Arlli Stone made a statement in her debut, leading the Mariners with 18 points on 7-of-13 shooting while also adding four assists and a steal. Peyton Shafer showcased her versatility with 14 points, five rebounds, and solid defensive play, while Niya Moon added 13 points, including three three-pointers that stretched the defense. Taylor Blackshear was all over the stat sheet with 10 points, seven rebounds, five steals, and three assists, anchoring the team's defensive intensity. Veteran guard Amanda Roach chipped in 12 points and five rebounds, providing steady leadership and efficient scoring.
Coastal Georgia's team-oriented approach was reflected in the stat line — 25 assists on 35 made field goals, 47 rebounds, and constant hustle on the glass and in transition. The Mariners never trailed after the early moments of the first quarter and extended their lead to as many as 28 points in the second half before cruising to the win.
The victory not only gives Coastal Georgia a 1–0 start to the season but also sets an early tone for the team's identity: high-pressure defense, fast-paced offense, and unselfish, energetic play. With multiple program records falling on opening night and a balanced roster contributing across the board, the Mariners showed the kind of promise that could make the 2025–26 season one to remember.
