UNC Wilmington’s season is starting to speak for itself. The Seahawks are 16-2 overall, 5-0 in conference play, and have won six straight games. They sit alone at the top of the Coastal Athletic Association standings, just ahead of Hofstra and Charleston, and they are doing it with a steady, consistent style that shows up every night.
The two losses came early. One was on the road at Kent State in the second game of the season. The other was a one-point loss at home to Howard. Since then, UNC Wilmington has cleaned things up, leaned into its strengths, and played like a team with a clear plan.
If there are still doubters, look back to March of 2025 when the Seahawks went neck and neck with No. 3 seed Texas Tech in the NCAA Tournament. The Red Raiders eventually won 82-72.
A Team Built on Balance and Defense
UNC Wilmington is not built around one star or one hot stretch. The Seahawks average just over 78 points per game, but their defense has been just as important, allowing fewer than 66 points per night. They rebound extremely well and rarely give opponents extra chances.
Nolan Hodge leads the team at 16.2 points per game and has been a reliable scorer all season. Inside, Patrick Wessler has been a constant presence, averaging 12.5 points and 9.1 rebounds while shooting nearly 60 percent from the floor. Guards like Greedy Williams keep the offense organized and help control the pace.
The biggest strength is that everyone knows their role. That balance has allowed UNC Wilmington to win comfortably at times and grind out close games when needed.
A Fast Start in Conference Play
UNC Wilmington has opened CAA play with five straight wins and has already created some separation at the top of the standings. Hofstra Pride and Charleston Cougars are right behind at 4-0, which sets up what should be a tight race over the next several weeks.
The Seahawks have already proven they can win on the road and handle physical games. Those early conference wins matter, especially with a demanding stretch of the schedule still ahead.
What the Remaining Schedule Looks Like
UNC Wilmington’s upcoming schedule gives the Seahawks a chance to build even more momentum, but it will not be easy.
The next game comes at home against Campbell Fighting Camels, followed by a road trip to face William & Mary Tribe.
Later in January, road games at Hampton Pirates and Towson Tigers will test UNC Wilmington’s depth and toughness. Towson, in particular, has been a difficult place to play in recent years.
February is where things really tighten up. Home games against William & Mary and Elon are sandwiched by a key road trip to Charleston, one of the biggest games on the CAA schedule. The Seahawks will then host Hofstra, a matchup that could have major implications for the regular-season title.
Monmouth comes to town on February 19th, followed by a return trip to Campbell on February 21st. The regular season closes with North Carolina A&T at home, followed by another meeting against Charleston, setting up a potential swing stretch in the standings. The final regular season game is at Elon on Mrach 3rd.
Steady Leadership from the Bench
Head coach Takayo Siddle has built this team around defense, rebounding, and discipline. Now in his sixth season, Siddle’s teams rarely beat themselves, and they tend to look comfortable in close games.
Under his leadership, UNC Wilmington has won a CBI championship, conference titles, and returned to the NCAA Tournament. This group looks capable of continuing that trend.
Why UNC Wilmington Should Stay on the Radar
UNC Wilmington is not flashy, but it is dependable. The Seahawks defend, rebound, and stay connected on both ends of the floor. With a challenging but manageable schedule ahead, they have a real chance to control their path in the CAA race.
If they handle business over the next few weeks, the Seahawks will not just be leading the conference. They will be positioning themselves for another postseason run, and college basketball fans should keep a close eye on how this season unfolds.