By Ryan Tarletsky, freshman

After finishing the regular season on a three game winning streak, the Friends University women’s basketball team continued the hot streak Wednesday beating Bethel College 59-57 in the first round of the KCAC tournament.

“We really struggled in the first half,” senior Jessica Halsig said. “If it wasn’t for Alyson Snell, we would not have kept it so close.”

Snell led the Falcons in scoring with 18 points and played strong defensively with three steals.

Teamwork was the key to victory, Assistant Coach Lia Faber said.

“When we got down, we battled back, not as individuals but as a group,” Faber said. “I feel like we really have come together as a team and have learned to believe and trust in one another.”

Teaming together to get 20 assists, the Falcons played as one.

“We were determined to win,” said Halsig. “Kinsley Hilst stepped up and made big defensive stops, along with Mary O’Nelio who grabbed key rebounds. Calli Mathews had clutch free throws, and Tavi Polley-Davis got us the game winning shot. That’s what I love about this team, we never give up, no matter what.”
Faber said that overall, the team played defense well.

"But we all know that we all still can, and will, improve before our next game,” she said. “We know it's a do or die thing. I don't think any of us are ready for season to be over. We will come out with everything we've got."

“We are proud of the win against Bethel, but we know we are not satisfied yet, and we won’t be until we win it all,” said Halsig.

Friends will look to continue its quest for a Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference title as they play Saturday at Sterling College.