Sterling battles hard but can't slow Tabor's hot shooting

STERLING, Kan. - Sterling College fell to Tabor College, 80-50, on Saturday, Jan. 31, as the Bluejays shot 53.7% from the field, including 52.2% from beyond the arc. Sterling managed to score 32 points in the paint but was unable to overcome the Bluejays' 30-poin lead.

The Lady Warriors began the quarter with a strong performance in the paint, scoring eight points inside. McKenna Vogl led the charge with two early layups that kept the team competitive. The defensive effort was highlighted by two blocks, including one by Kali Briar, which helped contain Tabor's offensive threats. Despite these efforts, Tabor gained momentum with a late scoring surge, including a crucial 3-pointer by Hailey Contreras with 48 seconds left. Sterling struggled with turnovers, committing six in the quarter, which Tabor capitalized on to extend their lead. The quarter concluded with Sterling trailing 15-8.

Sterling opened the second quarter with defensive intensity, highlighted by Karlee Jacobs' early steal leading to Bailey Young's successful free throws. Sterling capitalized in the paint, scoring eight points, including a fast-break layup by Jacobs at 6:20, narrowing Tabor's lead. Despite Sterling's efforts, Tabor responded with accurate outside shooting, including a three-pointer by Kaylee Kauffman at 3:28, extending their advantage. Sterling's Vogl contributed with a tip-in, and Aja Spencer's three-pointer helped keep the game within reach. However, Tabor maintained a slight edge, closing the quarter with a jumper at the buzzer, to take a 35–25 lead going into the half.

The third quarter began with Jacobs scoring a layup assisted by Young, setting an early tone. Despite a strong effort in the paint, accumulating 10 points, Sterling was unable to maintain consistent momentum due to turnovers and missed opportunities from beyond the arc. Tabor capitalized on these errors, with Contreras contributing significantly to their scoring with a three-pointer and multiple assists. Tabor surged ahead with a 26-point performance in the quarter, as Sterling struggled with turnovers which led to easy point for the Bluejays. By the close of the third quarter, Sterling trailed 61-39.

The Lady Warriors continued to struggle in the fourth as Tabor opened with a strong offensive performance. Tabor's Tayton Smith initiated scoring with a tip-in, and Contreras extended their lead with a 3-pointer. Despite a 3-pointer from Rori Miles and layups by Alex Terverbaugh and Nevaeh Johnson, Sterling struggled to close the gap. Tabor continued to build momentum with key 3-pointers by Kauffman and Lillie Veer. Sterling managed to capitalize on a few turnovers and defensive stops, but Tabor's efficiency from the field, including a late layup by Katelin Long, maintained their lead. The quarter ended with Tabor outscoring Sterling 19-11, closing the game at 80-50.

Karlee Jacobs scored 12 points on 66.7% shooting and recorded two steals. Briar added nine points, including a 3-pointer, and collected three rebounds. Vogl posted seven points and secured six rebounds while also contributing a block and a steal.

Sterling (14-7, 10-5) has a quick turn around as they take on No. 17 Evangel University (17-2, 14-1) on Monday, Feb. 2 at 5:30 p.m. in Springfield, Mo.

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.