Sterling takes down Southwestern in Winfield

WINFIELD, Kan. — Sterling College defeated Southwestern College, 82-56, at Stewart Field House, on Saturday, Jan. 17, maintaining a 29-point lead late in the fourth quarter. The Lady Warriors capitalized on their advantage in the paint, scoring 50 points from that area, while also recording 11 steals.

Sterling initiated the contest with a strong offensive performance, quickly establishing a lead with Kali Briar's jumper and Nevaeh Johnson's contributions in the paint. Johnson's consistent scoring, coupled with Bailey Young's assists, helped build momentum early in the quarter. The team dominated the paint, scoring 12 points, while also capitalizing on the Builders' turnovers with four steals.

As the quarter progressed, the Lady Warriors extended their advantage, reaching a 15-point lead with 3:08 remaining. The team's defensive efforts limited the Builders' scoring opportunities, allowing only nine points in the first quarter. By the end of the quarter, Sterling maintained a commanding 19–9 lead.

Sterling extended its lead in the second quarter with an early 3-pointer from Briar, assisted by Aja Spencer, pushing the score to 24-11 at 8:57. The team capitalized on defensive pressure, forcing turnovers that led to points in the paint, including a layup by Spencer at 4:04, which contributed to a 12-0 run, setting the score at 38-19. Sterling maintained control, despite a late push from the Builders, which included a 13-1 run to help Southwestern close the gap to 39-32 at the half.

The Lady Warriors opened the third quarter with a strong offensive performance, capitalizing on high-percentage shots in the paint. Young and Johnson led the charge with effective layups, while Briar facilitated ball movement with multiple assists. As a result, the Warriors executed a 28-point quarter, establishing a commanding presence.

Defensively, Sterling limited the Builders to 11 points by effectively contesting shots and securing defensive rebounds. A key defensive moment occurred when Spencer blocked a three-pointer attempt by Macey Pond. Sterling's efforts extended their lead to 67-43 by the end of the third quarter, maintaining a substantial margin.

Sterling maintained control throughout the fourth quarter, extending their lead with a strong start. Johnson opened with a steal that set the tone early, as the Warriors capitalized on the Builders' turnovers. Karlee Jacobs and Gracie Oard contributed crucial points from the free-throw line, while Young's defensive rebound led to a successful layup, further widening the gap.

The lady Warrior's defense proved effective, highlighted by Young's block at 4:46, limiting the Builders' scoring opportunities. Alex Terverbaugh and Ashtyn Baker continued to push the pace, each scoring layups to solidify the lead. Despite the Builders' attempts to close the deficit with a few three-pointers, the Warriors preserved their advantage. The quarter concluded with Sterling leading 82-56, securing a decisive victory.

Briar scored 17 points, including three 3-pointers and recorded five assists. Johnson contributed 19 points and secured nine rebounds, enhancing both offensive and defensive efforts. Young had yet another double-double adding 14 points and collecting 14 rebounds, providing a strong presence on the boards. Spencer tallied seven points and made four steals, showcasing defensive activity.

Sterling (13-5, 9-3) will be back in the Gleason Center on Wednesday, Jan. 21 as they are set to take on McPherson College (7-10, 3-9) at 6 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.