SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Sterling defeated Kansas Christian, 87-54, on Tuesday, March 10 in the semi-final game of the NCCAA Central Region Championship. The Lady Warriors achieved a commanding 59-27 advantage in rebounds and led by as many as 39 points, capitalizing on a strong presence in the paint with 54 points.
Sterling began the game with a strong opening layup by McKenna Vogl, setting the tone early. The team capitalized on turnovers, converting them into points, and maintained pressure on defense, securing five steals in the first quarter. Sterling’s offensive efforts were supported by a balanced attack, with Kali Briar contributing a 3-pointer and Bailey Young adding key points in the paint.
The Lady Warrior’s defense limited the Falcons to just one field goal and forced seven turnovers. Sterling maintained control throughout, extending its lead to 16 points by the 3:14 mark. Closing the quarter, Erika Felker‘s layup consolidated a 21-5 lead for Sterling.
Sterling effectively extended its lead in the second quarter, showcasing strong offensive and defensive efforts. The home team outscored KCC 23-7, with notable contributions in the paint and from the bench. The Lady Warriors capitalized on turnovers, leading to quick points and maintaining pressure on the visitors.
Key plays included a successful layup by Young at 7:56, which was followed by a jumper from Briar at 7:29, further solidifying the momentum. Vogl added to the lead with a layup at 6:40, and later, Aja Spencer hit a 3-pointer at 0:31 and a layup at 0:04 to close the quarter. Sterling ended the quarter with a commanding 44-12 lead.
Sterling pushed its advantage in the third quarter, beginning with Nevaeh Johnson‘s early layup and defensive block, setting the tone for a strong performance. Johnson contributed significantly on both ends, including a fast-break layup to maintain momentum. Sterling’s defense was solid, allowing only five field goals from the Falcons while dominating the boards with 13 rebounds.
Offensively, the Lady Warrior’s bench was impactful, contributing 14 points in the third. Clara Arroyos made key assists and free throws, helping to maintain a comfortable lead. The quarter concluded with Bri Hochstetler‘s 3-pointer, extending Sterling’s lead to a game-high 39 points at the 1:35 mark. Sterling ended the third quarter ahead, 65–27.
The Lady Warriors maintained its significant lead throughout the fourth quarter, with Alexandria Terverbaugh and Arroyos each contributing early layups in the paint. Despite a series of turnovers, Sterling stayed composed, benefiting from defensive rebounds and key steals by Reece Smith and Ashtyn Baker.
The Falcons attempted a rally with multiple 3-pointers, but Sterling’s consistent scoring in the paint and efficient free-throw shooting extended its lead. Baker closed the quarter with successful free throws and a late layup, sealing the final score at 87-54 in favor of Sterling.
McKenna Vogl led the team with nine points and eight rebounds, adding three blocks. Nevaeh Johnson contributed nine points, shooting 3-for-4 from the field and converting all three free throws. Kali Briar added eight points, including two 3-pointers, while Clara Arroyos recorded seven points and three steals.
No. 1 seeded Sterling (18-12) will take on the No. 3 seeded Mission University (15-16) in the championship game of the NCCAA Central Region Tournament. The winner will move on to play in the NCCAA National Tournament, March 18-21.
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.
