NORTH NEWTON, Kan. — The Bethel Women's Basketball fell on Wednesday night in Thresher Gym in the KCAC Quaterfinals to Tabor, 60-53..

Bethel closes the night at 20–9 overall (17–6 KCAC), while Tabor improves to 15–14 (13–10 KCAC).

A Strong Third Quarter Shift

After trailing 32–26 at halftime, Bethel responded with urgency coming out of the locker room. The Threshers shot nearly 47% in the third quarter and flipped the script, turning a six-point deficit into a 45–44 lead heading into the fourth.

Defensively, Bethel forced turnovers and found transition opportunities. The energy inside Thresher Gym shifted. It felt like the game was tilting.

Fourth Quarter Drought

Bethel shot just 2-of-21 from the field in the final quarter. Good looks wouldn't fall. Offensive rebounds led to second chances, but the ball refused to drop. Meanwhile, Tabor capitalized on key possessions and finished the game on a 16–8 run.

Leaders for the Threshers

Caryn Yoder led Bethel with 17 points, attacking the paint and converting at the line. Kendall Locke added 15 points and 11 rebounds in a steady, all-around performance. Karlee Locke chipped in 12 points and nine boards.

Bethel forced turnovers and generated 19 points off those takeaways while also grabbing 15 offensive rebounds. But efficiency in the closing minutes ultimately made the difference.

What's Next: National Tournament Picture

While the conference tournament run ends here, Bethel's season is not technically over.

The Threshers now turn their attention to the remainder of the KCAC Tournament. If Evangel wins the KCAC Tournament, Bethel will receive the conference's 2nd automatic bid to the NAIA National Tournament. If Evangel does not win the tournament, Bethel will await the possibility of an at-large selection. Evangel will be in the semfinals on Saturday at 2PM against Saint Mary at home with the championship game the following Monday at 7PM. 

The NAIA Selection Show will air March 5 at 7:00 p.m. on the NAIA YouTube page.