MCPHERSON, Kan. — Sterling College edged McPherson College, 83-79, in a closely contested game on Wednesday, Feb. 18, with Sterling clinching the victory by making 80% of its free throws. The game featured seven ties and four lead changes, highlighting the competitive nature of the matchup.
Sterling began the first quarter by scoring on a 3-pointer from Bailey Young, leveling the score at 3-3 shortly after McPherson’s initial basket. Both teams exchanged leads throughout the quarter, with the Lady Warriors capitalizing on turnovers to generate points. Karlee Jacobs contributed by scoring two free throws, cutting McPherson’s lead to 11-10.
As the quarter progressed, McKenna Vogl and Erika Felker each added key baskets, allowing Sterling to keep pace. Despite several turnovers, Sterling remained resilient, with Kali Briar hitting two crucial free throws in the final seconds to tie the game. The quarter ended with the score knotted at 17-17.
Sterling began the second quarter with a pivotal 3-pointer by Jacobs to tie the game at 20. A defensive play by Briar shortly after, followed by a jumper, kept Sterling in contention. McPherson briefly pulled ahead, but the Lady Warriors maintained pressure, highlighted by a series of successful shots and assists, including a fast-break layup by Jacobs.
As the quarter progressed, the Lady Warriors managed to tie the score once more at 36 with a layup by Briar, assisted by Jacobs, who also contributed significantly with a 3-pointer and a free throw. Sterling gained a narrow lead with Young’s free throws in the final seconds. The quarter closed with Sterling leading 46-45, setting the stage for a competitive second half.
The Lady Warriors surged ahead in the third quarter with a strong offensive showing, outscoring McPherson 25–15. Young’s early layup reclaimed the lead at 9:22. Sterling’s defense was pivotal, forcing six turnovers and converting crucial points off these opportunities. Jacobs contributed significantly with a three-pointer at 5:05, pushing the lead to 56–50.
Sterling continued to build its advantage with a balanced attack, including a fastbreak layup by Briar at 4:08. Despite McPherson’s efforts to keep pace, Sterling’s consistent scoring and defensive stops allowed them to close the quarter with a 71–60 lead, maintaining control of the game.
The Lady Warriors began the fourth quarter with defensive intensity, forcing three steals early on. Despite multiple turnovers, it maintained pressure, highlighted by Young’s fastbreak jumper that pushed its lead to 73–62.
The Bulldogs narrowed the gap with a series of offensive rebounds and a timely 3-pointer by Amaree Henderson at 5:33, trimming the deficit to 73–67. However, Sterling responded with steady free-throw shooting by Briar, extending its advantage to 77–67.
As the quarter progressed, McPherson continued to challenge, cutting Sterling’s lead to just three points with a late 3-pointer. Nevertheless, the Lady Warriors secured the win with clutch free throws by Briar, closing the game with an 83–79 victory.
Karlee Jacobs scored 30 points and recorded five steals, showcasing a strong offensive presence. Kali Briar contributed 23 points and added five assists, playing a key role in ball distribution. Bailey Young finished with 18 points and collected 12 rebounds, providing a solid effort on both ends of the court.
Sterling (17-10, 13-8) will play their final game of the regular season in a Senior Night matchup against No. 15 ranked Evangel University (23-2, 20-1) at home on Saturday, Feb. 21. Tip off is set for 5 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.
