NORTH NEWTON, Kan. — The Bethel College women's basketball team picked up an important conference win Wednesday night, defeating Kansas Wesleyan 81–75 inside Thresher Gym to improve to 8–5 overall and 6–3 in KCAC play. The victory moves the Threshers into a tie for fifth place in the conference standings as league play continues.

Bethel controlled the game from the opening tip, building a 20–14 first-quarter lead and extending the margin to 43–31 at halftime. The Threshers never trailed, answering every Kansas Wesleyan run with timely baskets and defensive stops.

Karlee Locke and Madyson McKinzie led the scoring charge with 19 points apiece, while Caryn Yoder added 13 points and four assists. Kendall Locke filled the stat sheet with 11 points, seven assists, and four steals, helping set the tone on both ends of the floor. Emersyn Eischen chipped in 10 points, providing key scoring during critical stretches.

Bethel finished with 60 points in the paint, 24 points off turnovers, and 16 fast-break points, using pressure defense and efficient transition offense to maintain control throughout the contest. The Threshers also knocked down timely free throws late to seal the win.

With momentum building, Bethel now turns its attention back to the road. The Threshers will return to action Saturday, traveling to Saint Mary for a 3:00 PM tipoff in Leavenworth.