STERLING, Kan. – Sterling College defeated Oklahoma Wesleyan University, 62-52, in the Gleason Center on Saturday, Feb. 7. The Lady Warriors had a strong showing in the paint, scoring 36 points. Sterling held a 12-point lead at its largest and maintained control throughout the game.
Sterling opened the quarter with a strong presence in the paint, scoring 14 points from close range. Rori Miles contributed early with an offensive rebound and tip-in, helping the team keep pace. Sterling capitalized on turnovers with Karlee Jacobs facilitating key plays, including assists that led to scoring opportunities.
Midway through the quarter, the teams remained closely matched, trading baskets and maintaining a tie at several points. McKenna Vogl and Aja Spencer added crucial layups to shift momentum slightly in favor of Sterling. The quarter closed with Gracie Oard hitting a three-pointer, giving Sterling an 18-15 lead over Oklahoma Wesleyan.
The Lady Warriors began the second quarter by capitalizing on an Eagle’s early turnover, with Vogl making a layup to extend the lead. Sterling maintained momentum with effective defense, generating three steals and converting turnovers into points. Bailey Young was instrumental, contributing a tip-in and a layup to widen the gap.
Midway through the quarter, Sterling’s defense held strong, forcing Oklahoma Wesleyan into several missed shots and turnovers. Spencer hit a pivotal 3-pointer, and Erika Felker converted two free throws to keep the team ahead. The quarter closed with Sterling extending their advantage, ending with a 37-27 lead over OKWU.
Sterling maintained its lead during the third quarter, responding to OKWU’s early scoring momentum. A three-pointer by Spencer at 6:35 helped cushion the advantage. The team capitalized on turnovers, with Jacobs contributing crucial free throws to extend the lead.
Young’s strong defensive rebound and subsequent layup at 1:46 added to Sterling’s advantage. Oklahoma Wesleyan managed to stay within range, but Sterling closed the quarter ahead. The quarter ended with Sterling leading 52-40, having outscored the visitors 15-13 in the period.
The Lady Warriors began the fourth quarter by maintaining a narrow lead. Nevaeh Johnson contributed significantly with multiple key plays, including a layup at 7:05, assisted by Young, which she followed with a successful free throw to extend the lead to 55-46. Sterling continued to capitalize on the Eagles turnovers with Jacobs executing a steal at 6:49, leading to another Johnson layup, pushing the score to 57-46.
Despite OKWU’s attempts to close the gap, including a layup by Kamryn Phoenix, Sterling maintained momentum. Kali Briar‘s three-pointer at 5:14, assisted by Felker, further widened the lead to 60-48. The home team kept defensive pressure high, with Vogl and Jacobs each recording blocks, and maintained a 62-52 advantage as the quarter concluded, securing the win.
Young posted a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, converting 5 of 6 field goal attempts. Jacobs recorded seven rebounds, four steals and added five assists, showcasing her all-around contribution. Spencer scored 10 points off the bench, making 4 of 5 field goals, including two 3-pointers. Johnson added nine points and two blocks, providing a strong defensive presence.
Up next, Sterling (15-9, 11-7) will travel to Wichita, Kan. to take on Friends University (20-4, 14-4) on Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 6 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.
