WICHITA, Kan. — Sterling College upset the No. 20 ranked Friends University, 58-46, on Wednesday, Feb. 11 on the road, capitalizing on 16 steals to secure the victory.
In their next game, Sterling will face Oklahoma Wesleyan University at home on Saturday, March 7. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. at Sterling, Kan.
Sterling began the first quarter with balanced offensive execution, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Kali Briar and a subsequent 3-pointer by Rori Miles, which helped to establish a lead. Sterling’s defense was effective, forcing multiple turnovers and converting them into scoring opportunities, with Karlee Jacobs contributing both offensively and defensively with a steal and a basket.
Despite the Falcons’ efforts to keep the score tight, Sterling maintained its advantage through consistent scoring and defensive rebounds, limiting the Falcons’ second-chance points. Sterling closed the quarter leading 16–14, setting the tone for a competitive matchup.
The Lady Warriors initiated a momentum shift with a series of defensive plays, highlighted by McKenna Vogl‘s and Jacobs’ steals early in the quarter. Sterling used these opportunities to tie the score at 18. Briar then contributed a key 3-pointer, assisted by Jacobs, to break the tie and put Sterling ahead.
The team maintained its edge through a combination of timely assists and effective rebounding, with Nevaeh Johnson extending the lead to 27-20 with a successful shot in the paint. Despite the Falcons’ late push, Sterling preserved its lead, concluding the quarter tied at 11, and maintaining a 27-25 advantage overall going into the half.
Sterling opened the third quarter with a quick offensive burst, highlighted by Karlee Jacobs and Bailey Young each connecting on 3-pointers. This early momentum helped them maintain a lead over the Falcons. Sterling’s defense then capitalized with key steals from Briar and Miles, limiting the Falcons’ opportunities and maintaining control.
The middle of the quarter saw continued defensive stops, with Aja Spencer and Vogl contributing blocks that stifled the Falcons’ attempts to close the gap. The Lady Warrior’s offensive efforts were supported by strong rebounding, allowing second-chance points including a basket by Miles.
Sterling closed the quarter by extending its lead, with Briar adding two successful free throws to push their advantage. By the end of the third quarter, Sterling led 41-35, setting the stage for the final quarter.
The Lady Warriors capitalized on early momentum in the fourth quarter with Briar’s three-pointer at 9:46, pushing its lead further. Briar continued to be instrumental by adding a two-pointer off an assist from Miles, extending the advantage. Solid defense and crucial steals, including one by Jacobs, kept the Falcons at bay.
Bailey Young contributed significantly with key plays in the paint, scoring a basket and converting a free throw following a foul with 1:46 remaining. Vogl also added from the free throw line, maintaining the pressure on the Falcons. Despite a late three-pointer by the Falcons, Sterling closed the game with a 17-11 quarter, securing a convincing 58-46 victory.
Karlee Jacobs contributed 11 points while recording five steals and five assists. Kali Briar scored 17 points, four assists and added four steals. Rori Miles posted nine points, connected on one 3-pointer, and collected three steals. McKenna Vogl secured nine rebounds and registered three steals.
Up next, Sterling (16-9, 12-7) will take on Avila University (12-13, 8-11) in Kansas City, Mo. on Saturday, Feb. 14 with tip-off to take place at 1 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.
