SALINA, Kan. — The Bethel College women's basketball team opened its 2025–26 season with an impressive win over William Penn before falling in a competitive matchup against Dakota State to close out the Kansas Wesleyan Classic.

Bethel 78, William Penn 59 — Friday, Oct. 31

The Threshers started the season strong, jumping out to an early 9–2 lead and never trailing in a wire-to-wire victory over William Penn.

Kendall Locke led all scorers with 27 points on 12-of-16 shooting, adding six rebounds and four steals. Madyson McKinzie followed with 16 points, five assists, and four rebounds, while Karlee Locke contributed 14 points and five assists.

Bethel's offense clicked early, shooting 60 percent in the first quarter and 63 percent in the second, helping the Threshers take a commanding 51–24 halftime lead. Defensively, Bethel forced 23 turnovers, converting them into 37 points, while out-rebounding William Penn 40–28 and dominating the paint 44–38.

Dakota State 100, Bethel 75 — Saturday, Nov. 1

Bethel hung tough early, trailing by just three after the first quarter before Dakota State used a 21–15 second period to build momentum heading into halftime.

Kendall Locke led the Threshers with 21 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Karlee Locke added a double-double with 19 points and 12 rebounds. Madyson McKinzie chipped in 17 points and 9 rebounds, and Caryn Yoder finished with 4 points, 3 assists, and 3 steals.

As a team, Bethel shot 36.8% from the field and 85.2% from the free-throw line, while matching the Trojans with 39 total rebounds. Dakota State's size and efficiency inside made the difference, outscoring Bethel 66–40 in the paint and converting 33 points off turnovers.

Bethel (1–1) returns home for the Bethel Classic, hosting Morningside on Thursday at 6:00 PM and Baker on Friday at 6:00 PM inside Thresher Gym.