STERLING, Kan. — Sterling College defeated Avila University, 75-67, in the Gleason Center on Saturday, Nov. 22. The Lady Warrior defense recorded 11 steals and 9 blocks, contributing to the victory.
Sterling started the first quarter with a strong defensive presence, forcing the Eagles into six turnovers. Karlee Jacobs and Karli Briar led the early scoring effort, combining for key layups and jump shots, which helped Sterling to maintain their lead throughout the quarter.
The defensive efforts were highlighted by McKenna Vogl‘s two blocks, which contributed to Sterling’s ability to control the pace. Despite Avila’s attempts to keep the game close, including a late three-pointer by Ashlyn Kuhlman, Sterling ended the quarter with a slight edge.
As the first quarter closed, Briar hit a three-pointer with just 10 seconds left, securing a 19–17 lead for the Lady Warriors.
Sterling College capitalized on the Eagles’ turnovers early in the second quarter, with Jacobs opening the scoring with a layup after a steal. Sterling maintained pressure, creating scoring opportunities and converting nine of 18 baskets, including two 3-pointers.
Aja Spencer‘s fast break 3-pointer and Vogl’s consistent scoring extended Sterling’s advantage. The Lady Warrior’s defense was effective, forcing Avila into eight turnovers, while Sterling committed only two. The quarter concluded with Sterling holding a 42–32 lead, having outscored Avila 23–15 in the quarter.
Sterling College began the third quarter with a momentum-building 3-pointer from Briar at 9:00, assisted by Jacobs, pushing the home team’s lead to 45–32. Despite the Eagles’ efforts to close the gap, including a three-point play by Madilyn Melton, Sterling maintained their advantage with key contributions from Vogl, who added a layup and two free throws.
Sterling’s defense managed to limit Avila’s fast-break opportunities, while Vogl’s consistent scoring helped keep the lead intact. Although Avila outscored Sterling in the quarter, the home team closed with a crucial layup by Vogl at 0:30, assisted by Gracie Oard, securing a 59–53 lead at the end of the third quarter.
In the fourth quarter, The Lady Warriors maintained their lead with key free throws by Jacobs, who converted both attempts at 9:34, boosting the score to 61–53. Vogl’s defensive rebound at 6:53 set up Bailey Young‘s successful layup at 6:42, extending the lead. Sterling exhibited strong defensive plays, including a block by Young at 4:42 and a steal by Erika Felker at 5:59, which helped limit the Eagles’ scoring opportunities.
Despite Avila’s effort to close the gap with a three-pointer by Talia Dyson at 2:47, Sterling responded with a jumper from Briar at 1:08 and a fast-break layup at 0:43, securing their victory. The quarter concluded with Sterling leading, 75–67, as they outscored Avila 16–14 in the final quarter.
Jacobs scored 19 points, made six of six free throws and tallied three steals. Briar added 20 points, converting three of eight from beyond the arc. Vogl posted 20 points, recorded seven blocks, had four steals and collected six rebounds. Aja Spencer contributed five points and secured four rebounds.
With the win, the Lady Warriors improve to 5-2 overall, 3-0 in conference. Sterling’s next match up will be a non-conference game against Doane University on Saturday, Nov. 29 in the Gleason Center 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.
