SALINA, Kan.—The Bethel College women's basketball team claimed an impressive 69-61 road win over Kansas Wesleyan University on Wednesday night at Mabee Arena. The victory improved the Threshers to 7-8 overall and 6-3 in KCAC play, as they head into Saturday's game against Saint Mary with momentum.
Madyson McKinzie led Bethel with 15 points, including a perfect 6-for-6 from the field in the first half, while Kendall Locke delivered a team-high 18 points and eight rebounds. Natalie Richards added 15 points, hitting three critical three-pointers.
How It Happened
Bethel opened the game with strong shooting and defensive intensity, leading 22-19 after the first quarter. They extended their advantage in the second quarter behind Richards and Locke, taking a 40-35 lead into halftime.
Kansas Wesleyan narrowed the gap in the third quarter, but Bethel's defense forced critical turnovers to maintain a slight edge. The Threshers sealed the game with a 15-11 fourth-quarter performance, highlighted by strong free-throw shooting down the stretch.
Locke's relentless play on both ends proved pivotal, and McKinzie's efficiency kept the Coyotes at bay. Bethel's balanced scoring attack and timely three-point shooting were decisive in their victory.
Inside the Numbers
- Bethel shot 45% from the field, including 38.5% from three-point range (5-for-13).
- Kansas Wesleyan struggled from beyond the arc, converting just 2-of-18 attempts (11.1%).
- The Threshers capitalized on turnovers, scoring 22 points off 18 Kansas Wesleyan miscues.
- Bethel won the turnover battle, committing just eight compared to the Coyotes' 18.
Up Next
Bethel returns home on Saturday, January 11th, to face the University of Saint Mary. Tip-off is set for 3:00 PM in Thresher Gym