STERLING, Kan. – Sterling College defeated York University, 89-45, in the Lady Warrior’s KCAC conference-opener on Saturday, Nov. 15, with a commanding 50 points scored in the paint and 22 steals. Sterling College maintained control throughout the game, leading by as much as 46 points.
The Lady Warriors opened the game with a strong offensive performance, quickly establishing control. Karlee Jacobs initiated the scoring with a layup in the first minute. Sterling capitalized on York’s early turnovers, with Jacobs and Rori Miles leading the defensive efforts that translated to points on the other end.
Sterling maintained their momentum with contributions from Kali Briar, who hit a 3-pointer to extend the lead. The team continued to pressure the Panthers, forcing multiple turnovers and capitalizing on fast breaks. McKenna Vogl‘s defensive presence, highlighted by three blocks, further stifled the Panthers’ offense.
Sterling closed the first quarter decisively, with a 3-pointer from Jacobs and a quick layup in the final seconds, ending the quarter up 31–7.
The Lady Warriors surged ahead in the second quarter, capitalizing on defensive stops and efficient scoring. Jacobs led the charge with multiple successful layups and a three-point play, while Sterling’s defense forced the Panthers into six turnovers. Vogl and Megan Rickie contributed with key steals, maintaining pressure on York’s offense. Sterling maintained their momentum with a combination of inside scoring and free throws, extending their lead to a 55–24 advantage over the Panthers as the half concluded.
Sterling began the third quarter with a strong defensive presence, forcing turnovers and capitalizing on York’s mistakes. Jacobs set the tone early with a layup, and the team continued to build momentum. Key defensive stops and steals, including efforts from Vogl and Bailey Young, fueled their transition game and added to the score.
Throughout the quarter, Sterling outscored the Panthers 26-12, largely driven by points in the paint and efficient free throw shooting. The team demonstrated resilience, maintaining pressure and converting defensive plays into scoring opportunities. The quarter concluded with Lauren Galliher sinking a pair of free throws, extending the lead to 81-36.
The fourth quarter began with a focus on defensive efforts from both teams, as the Panthers struggled to convert field goals, making just three of 17 attempts. Sterling capitalized on defensive stops, with Rickie and Erika Felker each recording key steals that halted York’s momentum. Despite offensive turnovers, Sterling maintained a strong presence on the defensive boards, with Clara Arroyos and Felker contributing big rebounds.
As the quarter progressed, Gracie Oard and Aja Spencer led Sterling’s offensive push with timely scoring, including a fastbreak layup and a pivotal three-pointer assisted by Felker. Sterling’s defense continued to stifle the Panthers, evident in Galliher’s block that further disrupted York’s rhythm. The Panthers managed to outscore Sterling by one in the quarter, but Sterling closed confidently, ending the game with a substantial lead and a final score of 89-45.
Karlee Jacobs scored 26 points on 9-of-10 shooting and added four rebounds and three steals. Kali Briar finished with 17 points, including three 3-pointers, and contributed two steals. Megan Rickie recorded four steals and added seven points. McKenna Vogl tallied 10 points, collected three blocks and five steals. Bailey Young led the team in rebounds with seven.
The Lady Warriors (3-2, 1-0) will take on Bethany College (2-3, 0-1) in Lindsborg, Kan. on Wednesday, Nov. 19 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.
