STERLING, Kan. — Sterling College defeated McPherson College, 88-70, at Gleason Center on Wednesday, Jan. 21, securing the win with a dominating 23-point lead at one point. Sterling’s 18 steals contributed significantly to their victory.
The Lady Warriors opened the game with strong defensive pressure, generating six steals and converting turnovers into 12 points. Sterling capitalized on fast breaks and paint points to maintain momentum, as Karlee Jacobs and Bailey Young contributed key plays on both ends of the court. The Bulldogs struggled with turnovers, committing 10 in the quarter, which Sterling effectively turned into scoring opportunities. Despite McPherson’s attempts to keep the score close, Sterling closed the quarter with a 5-point lead, 18–13.
Sterling capitalized on a strong defensive effort to start the second quarter, with Jacobs securing a steal that led to Rori Miles‘ fast-break layup just 34 seconds in. Sterling widened the gap with a series of effective plays in the paint, including a layup by Young and a block from McKenna Vogl, which helped them maintain momentum. The home team’s bench contributed significantly, adding five points to the tally, and Sterling’s defense continued to hold firm, forcing turnovers and limiting McPherson’s second-chance opportunities. The Lady Warriors closed the quarter with Miles connecting on a jumper with just 27 seconds left, advancing the lead to 40–27.
Sterling began the third quarter with a strong defensive performance, highlighted by a block and subsequent rebound from Vogl. Miles contributed to the momentum with an early layup and a defensive rebound, keeping the Lady Warriors in control. Young’s efforts on the offensive boards led to additional scoring opportunities, and Jacobs capitalized on a fast-break layup to widen the gap. Sterling’s defensive pressure resulted in six steals throughout the quarter, while the team capitalized on turnovers to generate quick points. Nevaeh Johnson‘s free throws extended the lead, supported by consistent offensive rebounds that maintained possession. Sterling closed the quarter with a solid defensive stand, allowing only minor gains by the Bulldogs, and secured a 61-46 lead.
The Lady Warriors began the fourth quarter with a narrow lead and quickly expanded it through efficient shooting. Young and Jacobs played pivotal roles, with Young securing rebounds and assists while Jacobs capitalized on fast breaks. Sterling’s defensive efforts, marked by multiple steals, disrupted the opponent’s momentum. Kali Briar contributed significantly with her 3-point shooting, adding crucial points to maintain the lead. Johnson and Vogl were effective in the paint, ensuring Sterling outscored McPherson inside. Despite the Bulldogs’ attempts to close the gap with perimeter shooting, Sterling’s consistent scoring maintained control. The quarter concluded with a strong offensive finish from Sterling, with Erika Felker and Clara Arroyos contributing late points to seal a 88-70 victory. Sterling outscored the Bulldogs 27-24 in the final quarter, closing the game on a confident note.
Karlee Jacobs contributed 11 points and recorded six steals. Kali Briar scored 19 points, hitting four 3-pointers and adding three steals. Rori Miles finished with 13 points and five assists, shooting 75% from the field. Nevaeh Johnson posted a double-double with 19 points and 10 rebounds, including seven successful free throws. Bailey Young also posted a double-double with 19 rebounds and 13 points.
Sterling (14-15, 10-3) will be back in action in Springfield, Mo. taking on Evangel University (16-1, 13-0) on Friday, Jan. 23 at 5 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.
