Hillsboro, Kan. – The Bethany College women’s basketball team showcased grit and improvement throughout the weekend at the Tabor College Classic, falling just short in an overtime thriller to Benedictine College before rebounding with a strong win over John Brown University to close the event.
Game 1: Benedictine 83, Bethany 78 (OT)
In Friday’s opener, the Swedes went toe-to-toe with a tough Benedictine squad in a fast-paced, back-and-forth contest that featured 11 lead changes and eight ties
Junior guard Colbi Rignell powered the offense with a season-high 26 points on 10-of-18 shooting, hitting two three-pointers and going a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line. Becca Unruh added 18 points and seven assists, while Janae Black-Harmon recorded a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Hannah Moss chipped in 10 points to round out four Swedes in double figures.
Bethany outrebounded Benedictine 42–36 and shot 42.9 percent from the field, but 27 turnovers proved costly as the Ravens capitalized for 29 points off miscues. Despite trailing in the final minute of regulation, the Swedes rallied to force overtime, where Benedictine pulled away at the free-throw line to edge out the 83–78 victory.
Game 2: Bethany 63, John Brown 55
The Swedes responded with determination on Saturday morning, earning their first win of the season with a 63–55 victory over John Brown University
After a slow first half, Bethany exploded for a 27-point third quarter — their best of the young season — to seize control. Janae Black-Harmon led the charge with an efficient 21 points on 10-of-14 shooting, while Jae’Mya Lyons added 11 points and seven rebounds off the bench. Unruh continued her steady play with 10 points and four assists, and Moss tallied seven points and five boards.
Bethany’s defense set the tone, forcing 21 turnovers and converting them into 18 points. The Swedes also dominated inside, outscoring John Brown 28–16 in the paint while shooting 38.1 percent from the floor.
After a competitive weekend in Hillsboro, the Swedes move to 1–2 on the season. With balanced scoring and emerging chemistry from their mix of returners and transfers, Bethany will look to carry the momentum from Saturday’s win into their next nonconference matchup.
Up Next…
Bethany College will be on the road Saturday, November 8th in Peru, Neb., taking on the Peru State College Bobcats starting at 6pm.
