UNC-Wilmington defeats Milligan 100-62 behind Ponder's 26

WILMINGTON, N.C. (AP) Craig Ponder scored 26 points to lead UNC-Wilmington past Milligan 100-62 on Friday night in a season opener for both teams.

Ponder finished the 2014-15 season averaging less than 12 points a game. He was 8 of 12 from the field, including 3 of 5 from 3-point range, but the rest of the team was just 3 for 18 from 3.

Will Buckner's layup midway through the first half put the NAIA Division II Buffaloes up 18-14. But the Seahawks used a 12-0 run to end any potential suspense.

The Seahawks broke the game open in the second half after taking a 17-point lead to halftime, 52-35. UNC-Wilmington forced Milligan to commit 29 turnovers and collected 16 steals.

The Buffaloes managed to outrebound the Seahawks 45-39.

Milligan was led by Julian Bailey's 15 points and 10 rebounds.