SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Sterling College secured a 79-72 victory over Mission University on Wednesday, March 11 to claim the NCCAA Central Region Championship and punch their ticket to the NCCAA National Tournament. The Lady Warriors recorded 18 points off second-chance opportunities, contributing to its win.
Sterling began the first quarter with a strong start, highlighted by Karlee Jacobs‘ two early 3-pointers, assisted by Kali Briar, which contributed to an initial lead of 6–2. Sterling maintained offensive pressure with McKenna Vogl and Bailey Young adding to the scoreboard. However, Mission responded with a series of successful field goals, including a 3-pointer by Ireland Jones, leveling the score at 9–9 midway through the quarter.
As the quarter progressed, Sterling’s defense showcased its capabilities with multiple blocks, particularly from Vogl, but Mission managed to edge ahead, achieving a largest lead of 5 points at one point. Despite a late push from the Lady Warriors, including free throws by Rori Miles and Nevaeh Johnson, the quarter concluded with the Patriots holding a narrow 19–17 lead.
Sterling surged in the second quarter, overturning an early deficit with a series of key plays. After falling behind by 11 points at 7:06, the Lady Warriors responded with a concerted effort led by Johnson and Jacobs. Johnson’s layup at 6:16 and Jacobs’ subsequent 3-pointer at 6:13 were pivotal in narrowing the gap. Sterling’s defense capitalized on the Patriots’ turnovers, culminating in a go-ahead 3-pointer by Briar at 4:29.
Sterling maintained its momentum, extending its lead to nine points by 1:09 with Jacobs hitting another 3-pointer. The quarter closed with Sterling leading 41–36, showcasing resilient offensive maneuvers and effective defensive rebounds.
The Lady Warriors established a strong presence in the third quarter by extending its lead early. Vogl’s layups, assisted by Briar, helped build momentum, pushing the home team’s advantage. The defensive rebounding by Young and others limited Mission’s second-chance opportunities.
Sterling continued to capitalize on its offensive drive with Briar and Erika Felker each sinking three-pointers, contributing to a significant scoring run. The team effectively increased the lead to 16 points at one point, maintaining control of the game. The quarter concluded with Sterling leading 63–51, maintaining a solid advantage entering the final quarter.
The Lady Warriors maintained a strong lead throughout the fourth quarter, highlighted by key baskets from Briar and Young. Briar contributed with a crucial 3-pointer early in the quarter, while Young added a jumper and a layup to keep Sterling ahead. Despite several turnovers, Sterling’s defense held firm, with Jacobs and Felker each recording a steal.
The Patriots attempted to close the gap with consistent scoring, including a late 3-pointer by Jones, but Sterling’s lead was never seriously threatened. Johnson sealed the game with two free throws in the final seconds. Sterling concluded the game with a 79-72 victory, successfully defending its largest lead of the quarter, which peaked at 17 points.
Jacobs scored 20 points, converting 5 of 6 attempts from beyond the arc. Briar added 18 points and recorded six assists, while also making five 3-pointers. Young collected 13 rebounds and posted 12 points, contributing significantly to the overall effort. Johnson recorded 12 rebounds and added eight points, demonstrating her impact on both ends of the floor.
The Lady Warriors will advance to the NCCAA National Tournament to be hosted by College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Mo. on Wednesday-Saturday, March 18-21. More information will be made available once the field is set.
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.
