NORTH NEWTON, Kan.—The Bethel College women's basketball team put together a strong performance on Saturday afternoon, defeating Ottawa University 77-65 at Thresher Gym. With this win, the Threshers improve to 10-8 overall and 9-3 in KCAC play, maintaining their momentum as the season progresses.

Kendall Locke was unstoppable, leading the Threshers with 23 points on 10-of-15 shooting, adding five rebounds and five assists. Madyson McKinzie recorded a double-double with 20 points and a game-high 13 rebounds, dominating the paint throughout the contest. Natalie Richards contributed 16 points, including two crucial three-pointers in the second half to help Bethel seal the victory.

How It Happened

Bethel opened the game with a strong defensive effort, holding Ottawa to 11 first-quarter points. Despite some turnovers in the second quarter, the Threshers maintained their composure, building a 29-21 halftime lead. Richards and Locke led the offensive charge, combining for 17 first-half points.

Ottawa made a push in the third quarter, outscoring Bethel 25-22 and cutting the lead to single digits. However, Bethel responded with a decisive 26-point fourth quarter, highlighted by Richards' three-point shooting and Locke's steady playmaking. Bethel's defense forced 12 turnovers and held Ottawa to just 40.7% shooting from the field.

Inside the Numbers

• Bethel shot 51.0% from the field, including 37.5% from three-point range.
• The Threshers converted 19-of-23 free throws (82.6%), compared to Ottawa's 10-of-13 (76.9%).
• Bethel won the rebounding battle 36-24, including a 9-7 edge on the offensive glass.
• The Threshers' defense limited Ottawa's leading scorer, Dominique Schutte, to 14 points on 4-of-11 shooting.

Up Next

Bethel will hit the road to face Friends University in Wichita on Wednesday, January 22nd. Tip-off is set for 6:00 PM as the Threshers look to continue their strong run in KCAC play.