NORTH NEWTON, Kan.—The Bethel College women's basketball team faced a tough test against Evangel University on Saturday afternoon, falling 78-58 in a KCAC matchup at Thresher Gym. Despite a career performance from Kendall Locke, the Threshers (4-7, 3-2 KCAC) were unable to keep pace with the hot-shooting Valor (3-6, 2-3 KCAC).

Locke delivered an impressive double-double with a game-high 29 points and 10 rebounds, hitting 11-of-19 shots from the field. However, Bethel struggled to find offensive consistency, shooting just 33.8% from the floor while Evangel posted a 45% mark.

How It Happened

Evangel set the tone early, jumping out to a 22-12 lead after the first quarter. Bethel found their rhythm in the second, outscoring the Valor 24-18 to cut the halftime deficit to 40-36. Locke carried the Threshers offensively in the opening half with 19 points, keeping Bethel within striking distance.

The second half saw the Valor pull away, led by a balanced attack from Carson Dillard and Emily Recker, who combined for 27 points. Evangel outscored Bethel 38-22 over the final two quarters, fueled by second-chance points and dominant free-throw shooting (89.5%).

Bethel's turnover struggles also proved costly, as the team committed 21 giveaways, leading to 15 points for the Valor.

Inside the Numbers

• Bethel was 6-for-26 (23.1%) from beyond the arc, compared to Evangel's 7-for-18 (38.9%).
• Evangel held a slim 36-34 rebounding advantage, with Micah Clayton pacing the Valor with seven boards.
• Carley Robb chipped in 13 points for Bethel, including three three-pointers, while Natalie Richards added eight points and five rebounds.
• Evangel converted 17-of-19 free throws, while Bethel hit just 8-of-13 attempts.

Up Next

The Threshers will aim to bounce back on Wednesday, December 11th, as they travel to face Sterling College. Tip-off is set for 6:00 PM.