HESSTON, Kan. - The Hesston College women's basketball team battled throughout the evening but ultimately fell 59–50 to Calvary University in a physical, competitive game at Yost Center on Wednesday.
Calvary came out aggressively and struck first, using strong shooting and ball movement to take an early lead. The Larks answered right away, with Brooke Bettis knocking down a three and Akiva Brown powering inside to keep Hesston within striking distance. The first quarter was a gritty defensive battle, but Calvary's early offensive execution gave them the edge heading into the second period.
The second quarter saw the Warriors build momentum as they continued to convert from the perimeter and at the free-throw line, stretching the lead as the teams headed to the locker room. Despite some defensive stops from Hesston, Calvary took an 18-8 lead into halftime. The Larks fought back in the third quarter, with Anna McIntire and Bettis attacking the paint and Krysten Carter contributing with tough baskets, helping Hesston close the gap to within single digits. Calvary responded with consistent offense of its own, however, keeping the game tight but in the visitors' favor.
In the fourth quarter, Hesston continued to battle, and Carter's scoring sparked a late push as the Larks cut into the deficit. The game remained competitive down the stretch, but Calvary's balanced attack and key defensive stands allowed the visitors to maintain their advantage and secure the 59–50 victory.
Bettis led Hesston with 13 points, connecting from long range, while Brown finished with 12 points and 15 rebounds and McIntire added 10 points and 13 rebounds. Carter chipped in 9 points, and Sarah Beltran contributed 3 in the effort. Calvary was paced by N'Ascent Robinson's 19 points, with Taylor Hunter adding 13 and Tyonna Garcia contributing 11 as the Warriors shot 35.7 percent from the field and 36.4 percent from three on the afternoon.
The Larks will be back in action on Jan. 31 as they travel to Arkansas Baptist for a 12 p.m. tipoff.