LEAVENWORTH, Kan. - The Bethel College women's basketball team dropped their road matchup with the Saint Mary Spires, who are receiving votes in the NAIA National poll, 81-57.
 
Bethel fell behind big in the first quarter as Saint Mary shot over 68% from the floor and 62% from three-point range on their way to a 29 point quarter.
 
The Threshers improved their shot making in the second frame but were still outscored by the Spires by a point as they trailed 46-27 at the intermission.
 
Bethel turned in their best quarter of the contest as they came out of the half ready looking to get back into the contest. BC shot over 44% from the floor in the quarter as back-to-back buckets from Kendall Locke and Caryn Yoder cut the Spire lead down to just 13 points before the Spires pushed it back up to 20 to end the quarter.
 
Both teams struggled offensively in the fourth quarter as there was a combined eight total shots made in the frame, four from each side.
 
Key Statistic
 
The Threshers knocked down just under 35% of their shot attempts while allowing the Spires to make nearly 50% of theirs.
 
By The Numbers
 
As a team, Bethel blocked 4 Spire shot attempts while stealing the ball 13 times.
 
Both teams turned the ball over 19 times, but the Spires were able to capitalize for 25 points and Bethel just 12.
 
Bethel pulled in 30 rebounds to Saint Mary's 39.
 
Nine Threshers scored in the loss.
 
The Threshers recorded 24 points in the paint while allowing the Spires to score 38.
 
Bethel pulled in 8 offensive boards without scoring a second chance point.
 
The Threshers assisted 14 of their 24 made baskets in the loss.
 
Thresher Leaders
 
Points: Kendall Locke (19)
 
Rebounds: Kendall Locke (6)
 
Assists: Kendall Locke (6)
 
Steals: Josie Stupey (3)
 
Blocks: Taylor Hight (2)
 
Up Next
 
The Threshers are back in action on Saturday, February 10th at 3:00 PM as they host the Southwestern Moundbuilders for their second to last home contest of the season.
 
 
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