Avila Blitzed by Bethany

LINDSBORG, Kan. – After Avila women's basketball impressively recorded its first win of the 2022-23 season on Wednesday, the Eagles (1-6, 1-1 KCAC) swiftly found themselves in a hole too big to climb out of, enabling Bethany (5-3, 2-0 KCAC) to exact some revenge for how last season ended in an 89-39 victory for the Swedes at home on Saturday evening.

Bethany shot better than 60% from the floor in the first period Saturday and allowed the Eagles to convert on only two field goals. That helped the Swedes build a 30-5 lead after 10 minutes. Bethany extended the margin at the intermission and though the Eagles were able to punch back somewhat in the fourth quarter thanks to 13 combined points from Emily Baldwin and Hannah Smith, the damage had already been done in a resounding win for the Swedes.

Bethany never trailed in the game and shot over 50% from the field on the night. Sarah Reiner, who typically scores four points per game, led all players with 24 points off the bench. Baldwin scored 11 points for the Eagles, as did Kaytee Frasher, who tied for the game lead with seven rebounds.

Up next, the Eagles will return to the site of their first victory of the season, Mabee Fieldhouse, this coming Tuesday, November 22, when the Bethel Threshers come to town. Memories of a momentous night in Mabee two seasons ago, when the Eagles earned a statement win over the Threshers, are sure to abound. Tipoff is slated for 6 PM with the men's game to follow; as always, you can watch all the action on the Avila Sports Network with Joe Van Amburg on the call.