Lady Warriors roll over Threshers

NORTH NEWTON, Kan. — Sterling College defeated Bethel College, 79-70, utilizing a dominant 55 points in the paint to secure the victory. Sterling capitalized on 28 points off turnovers, maintaining control throughout the game.

The Lady Warriors opened the first quarter with a balanced attack, seeing early success with a crucial 3-pointer from Kali Briar at 8:09, assisted by Rori Miles, to take a slim lead. Sterling maintained pressure through effective rebounding, with Bailey Young securing several boards, contributing to second-chance points. Despite an even exchange of baskets, notably with McKenna Vogl and Young scoring in the paint, Sterling briefly captured the advantage.

As the quarter progressed, Bethel responded by converting free throws and a late three-pointer, regaining the lead. Sterling's defense, highlighted by three blocks, helped keep the game close. The quarter concluded with a narrow deficit for Sterling, trailing 19–18.

Sterling initiated a strong second quarter, capitalizing on turnovers by the Threshers to shift momentum. Vogl led a scoring run, contributing a series of crucial field goals and free throws, allowing Sterling to regain the lead.

The quarter saw Sterling effectively controlling the paint with 21 points scored inside, while Bethel managed only seven. This control was pivotal in extending Sterling's advantage. As the quarter concluded with the Lady Warriors up, 41–33.

Sterling College opened the third quarter with a strong defensive stand, highlighted by Vogl's block at 9:37. This effort set the tone for a robust quarter where they capitalized on turnovers, generating five points directly from Bethel's miscues. Sterling controlled the paint with 12 points inside, helping them to establish a steady offensive rhythm.

Briar was instrumental in extending the lead, sinking back-to-back 3-pointers at 7:19 and 6:51. The team effectively converted fast breaks into points and showcased depth with contributions from the bench. As the quarter drew to a close, Sterling held firm defensively, limiting second-chance opportunities and closing the quarter with a 22–16 advantage over Bethel.

The Lady Warriors opened the fourth quarter with significant defensive pressure, highlighted by Miles' steal and subsequent fast-break layup to extend the lead. Karlee Jacobs and Briar combined for a crucial three-pointers, maintaining offensive momentum. Despite Bethel's efforts to cut into the deficit with points in the paint, Sterling's defensive rebounds and transition play kept them ahead.

In the latter half, Young's basket in the paint, assisted by Miles, further increased Sterling's advantage. Bethel responded with points from Madyson McKinzie, but Sterling's free-throw shooting by Briar and Miles in the final minutes sealed the outcome. The quarter concluded with Sterling maintaining control, leading to a final score of 79–70.

Briar led the team with 23 points, making 7 of 15 shots from the field and four 3-pointers. Young collected a team-high 12 rebounds, including seven on the offensive end, while scoring 14 points. Vogl added 18 points and recorded two blocks. Jacobs contributed with 11 points, five assists, and three steals.

The Lady Warriors move to 9-2 on the season, 6-0 on conference and are set to face Ottawa University (7-3, 3-3) in Ottawa, Kan. on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 1 p.m.

Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch the Warriors' live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.