Five Lady Warriors in double figures in dominant win over York

YORK, Neb. — Sterling dominated York, 105-80, at the Freeman Center on Saturday, Jan. 10, establishing a commanding 34-point lead in the fourth quarter. The Lady Warriors capitalized on York's turnovers, converting them into 28 points.

Sterling started the first quarter with strong offensive pressure, securing the paint early with 20 points. Kali Briar's early steal and jumper set the tone, while Bailey Young's presence was felt with multiple rebounds and a key jumper to maintain momentum. Karlee Jacobs and Nevaeh Johnson contributed timely scores, keeping the Warriors in the lead.

The Lady Warriors capitalized on York's turnovers, with Gracie Oard and Erika Felker adding fast-break points. The team achieved a significant edge with a six-point lead at 1:50 remaining, thanks to Felker's layup and free throw. The quarter concluded with the Warriors ahead 24-20, maintaining a narrow margin entering the second quarter.

Sterling opened the second quarter with momentum, extending their lead with an early jumper from Briar at 9:13. The Warriors capitalized on York's turnovers, with Rori Miles contributing a steal that led to a score, maintaining their offensive pressure. Oard's 3-pointer at 6:38 further widened the gap.

The team continued to control the quarter, with Young's free throws and layup adding to the scoring. Sterling's defense limited York's chances, only allowing them to score 14 points in the quarter. The period closed with the Warriors leading 50–39, maintaining a strong position into halftime.

Sterling opened the third quarter by extending their lead with a strong offensive performance, featuring key contributions from Jacobs who hit multiple 3-pointers. The team capitalized on their defensive stops, limiting York to six field goals on 21 attempts. Sterling further increased their advantage by converting six 3-pointers and forcing four turnovers.

The visitors maintained their momentum throughout the quarter, with Young providing essential assists and free throws. Johnson added to the scoring with timely layups, while the Lady Warriors' defense continued to stifle York. The quarter concluded with Sterling leading 81-56, having outscored York 31-17 in the third.

Sterling maintained control throughout the fourth quarter, effectively leveraging their significant lead. Johnson contributed a layup early in the quarter, while Briar added points from the free-throw line. Miles and Aja Spencer also found success in the paint, extending the team's scoring advantage.

The Lady Warriors' defense limited York's opportunities, allowing only a few successful field goals and forcing turnovers. Clara Arroyos delivered key points in the final minute, sealing the quarter with a layup and a free throw. Both teams scored 24 points in the fourth, but Sterling closed the game 105–80, preserving their large lead.

Jacobs scored 20 points, converting 7 of 9 field goals, including 4 of 4 from beyond the arc while Briar posted 19 points. Johnson added 18 points and collected five rebounds, while also contributing two steals. Young recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds and dished out five assists. Miles posted 10 points, secured four rebounds, and tallied four assists.

With the win, Sterling moves to 12-4 on the season, 8-2 in conference play. The Lady Warriors will take on Bethany College (8-7, 6-4) on Wednesday, Jan. 14 at 6 p.m. in the Gleason Center.

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.