POINT LOOKOUT, Mo. — No. 3 seeded Sterling fell to No. 2 seeded Bethel (Ind.), 76-63, in a the semifinal round of the NCCAA National Championship on Thursday, March 19 at Keeter Gymnasium. Despite a balanced effort from Sterling with 10 steals and 12 assists, the Pilots maintained control throughout, securing the win with a 13-point lead at the end of the first quarter.
The Lady Warriors started the first quarter against Bethel by struggling offensively, missing initial field goal attempts. McKenna Vogl contributed with a defensive rebound and a steal, but the team faced challenges converting possessions into points. Despite forcing five turnovers, Sterling’s scoring opportunities were limited early on.
Midway through the quarter, Sterling found some rhythm as Vogl and Bailey Young combined for three consecutive field goals, narrowing the gap to 15–6. Kali Briar contributed with an assist, and the defense exerted pressure, leading to key stops. However, Bethel capitalized on its offensive chances, extending its lead with a strong inside presence.
In the closing moments, Sterling managed to gain some footing with Young converting two free throws, cutting the deficit slightly. The quarter ended with the Lady Warriors trailing the Pilots 22–9.
Sterling opened the second quarter with a focus on closing the gap, highlighted by Gracie Oard‘s 3-pointer at 8:52, assisted by Briar. Sterling’s defense remained active with five steals, including key plays by Rori Miles and Karlee Jacobs, maintaining pressure on Bethel.
Despite the Pilots holding a 13-point lead early in the quarter, Sterling’s bench contributed five points, with Nevaeh Johnson and Young scoring crucial baskets to trim the lead. Sterling closed the quarter strong, with Jacobs scoring a layup in the paint at 25 seconds remaining, bringing the score to 34–27. Sterling outscored Bethel University 18–12 in the quarter, showcasing a resilient performance.
The Lady Warriors began the third quarter with a solid effort, closing the gap through consistent scoring. Young’s early jumper initiated a series of successful plays, including contributions from Johnson, who added multiple key baskets, and Erika Felker, who facilitated with assists. Despite their efforts, Sterling faced challenges as Bethel maintained a lead, with Mariah Claywell contributing pivotal points to extend the Pilot’s advantage.
Midway through the quarter, the Lady Warriors kept the pressure on the Pilots, highlighted by Young’s consistent scoring. Sterling’s defensive rebounds helped limit Bethel’s second-chance opportunities, but the Pilots capitalized on key moments to sustain their lead. As the quarter concluded, Sterling had narrowed the margin, yet Bethel held a 49–41 lead.
Sterling opened the final quarter with a defensive rebound by Young, followed by Young scoring a jumper to narrow the gap. Despite an early steal from Young, turnovers hindered further momentum. Sterling continued to fight with key contributions from Vogl, who added a jumper and later assisted on a three-pointer by Briar.
Midway through the quarter, Sterling’s offense made strides with Miles converting free throws and Young sinking a three-pointer, tightening the score. However, Bethel maintained its lead with consistent scoring. In the closing minutes, Vogl and Briar made notable scoring efforts, but Sterling was unable to overcome the Pilots’ late-game advantage.
The quarter ended with Sterling trailing, as Bethel (IN) extended its lead to secure a 76-63 victory.
Young led the team with 20 points, six rebounds and three steals. Vogl posted 17 points and added two steals, contributing significantly in the fourth quarter. Miles recorded three steals, while Johnson added seven points and secured four rebounds.
Sterling’s (20-13) final game of the season will come against the No. 5 seeded Cedarville (13-17) in the third-place game of the NCCAA National Championship to be played on Saturday, March 21 at noon.
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.
