STERLING, Kan. — Sterling College fell to Bethel College, 85-75, at the Gleason Center on Wednesday, Feb. 4, after a strong third quarter from the Threshers that included 28 points. Sterling scored 52 points in the paint but was unable to close the gap in the final quarter.
The Lady Warriors began the first quarter with a strong inside presence, scoring 16 points in the paint. Karlee Jacobs and McKenna Vogl contributed key baskets, leading to an early advantage. Sterling’s defense was effective, forcing five steals, which interrupted Bethel’s offensive rhythm. Sterling and the Threshers exchanged leads throughout the quarter, with Bethel briefly tying the score at 18. However, Sterling regained momentum in the closing minutes, highlighted by a layup from Kali Briar, to secure a 22–18 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Sterling began the second quarter with a quick scoring response from Rori Miles, who converted a tip-in following an offensive rebound to maintain a narrow lead. However, Bethel quickly leveled the score and shifted momentum with consecutive baskets, including a layup by Kendall Locke, creating a challenge for the home team. As the quarter progressed, Sterling fought back with crucial free throws from Jacobs and a layup from Bailey Young, narrowing the deficit. Late in the quarter, Briar’s layup and subsequent free throws reclaimed the lead for Sterling College. The quarter ended with Sterling holding a slim 39-38 lead over the Threshers.
The Lady Warriors entered the third quarter looking to build on their performance, but Bethel quickly shifted momentum with a strong offensive display. Despite Sterling’s efforts, including a key fast-break layup by Young at 8:01 to briefly regain the lead, Bethel’s defensive pressure intensified, forcing turnovers and converting them into points. Sterling’s Gracie Oard connected on a three-pointer at 5:57, assisted by Ashtyn Baker, to narrow the gap. Vogl added crucial points with layups, keeping Sterling competitive. However, Bethel capitalized on Sterling’s turnovers, extending their advantage with a series of successful field goals, ultimately closing the quarter ahead 66–51.
Sterling began the fourth quarter with determination, scoring in the paint and securing defensive rebounds. Vogl’s early tip-in cut into Bethel’s lead, setting a competitive tone. Despite Bethel’s scoring from the free-throw line, Sterling maintained pressure with a consistent inside game. Throughout the quarter, Sterling displayed strategic play with Nevaeh Johnson and Miles contributing crucial points, while Young’s defense helped limit Bethel’s opportunities. Baker and Jacobs added key late-game layups, narrowing the gap further. The Lady Warriors managed a 24-point quarter against the Threshers’ 19 points, closing the game with a strong offensive push. However, Bethel held on to finish ahead at 85-75.
Karlee Jacobs scored 14 points and recorded two steals. Kali Briar added 15 points and posted two blocks. Bailey Young finished with 13 points, converting all five of her field goal attempts, and collected 11 rebounds. McKenna Vogl scored 14 points and grabbed seven rebounds.
The Lady Warriors (14-9, 10-7) will be back in the Gleason Center on Saturday, Feb. 7 as they take on Oklahoma Wesleyan University (8-15, 4-13) 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.
