CANCUN, Mexico – K-State's attempt at second half rally against North Carolina on Friday fell shy, as the Tar Heels used a hot shooting first half to hold back the Wildcats, 85-73, in the Mayan Division of the 2025 Cancun Challenge at the Hard Rock Riviera Maya.
K-State (5-4) saw four players reach double figures on Friday, led by sophomore guard Izela Arenas with 15 points on 6-of-8 shooting including 2-of-3 from long range.
Sophomore forward Jenessa Cotton registered her first career double-double with 13 points on 6-of-9 and 10 rebounds.
Junior forward Nastja Claessens tallied 13 points, three rebounds and two assists, while junior guard Taryn Sides added 13 points on 3-of-5 shooting including 2-of-2 from long distance, two assists and three steals.
North Carolina (7-1) also had four players in double figures including a pair of bench players in Nyla Brooks and Nyla Harris with 14 points each to pace a bench effort of 35 points.
K-State returns to action on Saturday against South Dakota State. Tip-off is at 10 a.m.