Bethel Women’s Basketball Upsets No. 17 Evangel in Overtime Thriller
Threshers Rally After Halftime, Seal 81-79 Victory at Thresher Gym
The Bethel Thresher’s women’s basketball team faced No. 17 Evangel Valor on Saturday, Jan. 31. It was a game to look out for since the Threshers have been on fire, with a five-game winning streak, including an upset against No. 20 Friends University. Tension-filled Thresher Gym at tipoff, as Evangel won the tip to open the game.
“I was really excited, I had my Railer drink, and I felt really prepared. I had full faith in this team and the game plan.” Junior Alayna Vines, Lawton, OK, has been hard at work this past month, getting back into basketball after having a long volleyball season.
In the first quarter, both teams looked good and set up what appeared to be another tight contest, with the Threshers trailing 23-19. The start of the second quarter was rough for the Threshers. In the first three minutes, the Valor had an 8-0 run, which made things difficult for the girls. The Valor ended the half up 44-33.
Bethel responded to open the third quarter, putting together an 8-2 run in the first four minutes to cut the deficit to six. Vines drew multiple fouls and converted at the free-throw line.
They cut the lead to 56-54 to start the fourth. The final period kept the crowd engaged; the Valor struggled to make shots and began to deal with foul trouble. Both of their post players fouled out in the closing minutes.
It wasn’t until the clock fully expired that allowed fans to finally breathe. The girls were going into overtime, tied at 73. The crowd rose to its feet as the extra period began, bringing renewed energy inside Thresher Gym. Overtime remained tight until junior Alayna Vines knocked down a late two-pointer to give the Threshers an 81-79 lead. Bethel held on to secure the win over the No. 17 team in the country despite going 0-for-14 from 3-point range.
“Our goal was to get their post players in foul trouble, keep their point guard in front and out of the lane, and shut them down. We did all three,” head coach Jara Shoemaker said.
Bethel has found consistent success this season. The Threshers have shown growing trust in one another and confidence in the program. Bethel will return home on Valentine’s Day, hosting a 3 p.m. game at Thresher Gym.