FAYETTEVILLE, NC -- The Fayetteville State women's basketball team is making early-season noise, and Wednesday night was another example of why. In front of an energized Capel Arena crowd, the Broncos turned defense into dominance, rolling past UNC Pembroke 70-58 to remain unbeaten at 3-0.

From the opening tip, Fayetteville State showed grit and poise. The first quarter was a defensive chess match, with the Broncos clinging to a slim 9-8 lead. But when the second period began, the game shifted dramatically. After falling behind 12-9, FSU unleashed a 17-0 run fueled by relentless pressure and transition buckets. By halftime, the Broncos had built a 32-21 cushion, and the tone was set.

The Broncos' depth was on full display. KaNyah O'Neal led the charge with 15 points and four steals, setting the tone on both ends. Talia Trotter orchestrated the offense with precision, recording a double-double of 10 points and 11 assists, while Amirah Allen nearly matched that feat with nine points and nine rebounds.

Fayetteville State's defensive intensity was the difference. The Broncos held UNC Pembroke to just 18.2 percent from three-point range (2-for-11) and 34.4 percent overall, while swatting away 11 shots and forcing 15 turnovers. On the glass, FSU owned the boards with a 46-43 edge, including 14 offensive rebounds that led to 15 second-chance points.

The Broncos put the game out of reach in the third quarter, knocking down four three-pointers and stringing together an 8-0 run capped by a Navaeh Colon triple to push the lead to 59-38. From there, Fayetteville State never looked back, cruising through the final frame to seal the win.

Fayetteville State will look to keep its perfect start alive when it hosts Coker College on Saturday, November 22 at 2 p.m. inside Capel Arena. With confidence soaring and chemistry clicking, the Broncos are proving they're a force to be reckoned with in the CIAA.