NORTH NEWTON, Kan.—The Bethel College women's basketball team sent its seniors off in style with a hard-fought 60-57 victory over Tabor College on Wednesday night at Thresher Gym. With the win, the Threshers (15-12, 14-7 KCAC) stay in fifth place in the conference standings but remain just one game behind fourth-place.

Bethel honored its five seniors—Lexie Jones, Lexi Robinson, Natalie Richards, Carley Robb, and Taylor Hight—for their contributions to the program. The veteran leadership proved crucial as the Threshers held off a late push from Tabor to secure the win.

How It Happened

Bethel jumped out to a strong start, holding a narrow 19-18 lead after the first quarter. The second quarter saw both teams struggle offensively, with the Threshers outscoring Tabor 10-6 to take a 29-24 lead into halftime.

Coming out of the break, Bethel extended its lead behind clutch shooting from Natalie Richards, who led all scorers with 15 points, and Caryn Yoder, who added 12 points on 5-of-10 shooting. The Threshers' defense held firm, limiting Tabor to just 40% shooting for the game.

Despite a strong fourth-quarter effort from the Bluejays, Bethel was able to fend off the comeback attempt thanks to key defensive stops and late free throws. Madyson McKinzie also played a key role, finishing with 11 points and five rebounds.

Inside the Numbers

• Bethel shot 45.3% from the field and 25.0% from three-point range.
• The Threshers won the rebounding battle 30-22.
• Bethel had nine assists on 24 made field goals.
• The Threshers held a 34-20 advantage in points in the paint.

Playoff Picture

With the win, Bethel remains in fifth place but is just one game behindteh four seed. If the Threshers defeat York on Saturday and Tabor loses to Avila or if Evangel loses their last two games, Bethel will move up to fourth place, which would grant them a home game in the first round of the KCAC Tournament.

Up Next

Bethel will wrap up the regular season on the road at York University on Saturday, February 22nd, at 3:00 PM.