Mankato, MN -- The women from North Central University (NCU) traveled to Mankato, Minnesota to face the Bethany Lutheran College (BLC) Vikings this evening for their last regular season matchup. In the previous meeting between the two teams, the Rams lost to the Vikings 65-53 in Minneapolis. Tonight, North Central would fall once again as they lost to Bethany Lutheran by a final score of 63-43. Senior Kaitlyn VanderPloeg recorded her 12th double-double of the season with 10 points and 11 rebounds. This concludes the Rams' regular season schedule. 

The Rams had a sluggish start, managing just two points in the opening six minutes before senior Savi Rael knocked down a jumper in the paint to spark some momentum. However, Bethany Lutheran's defense remained dominant, holding NCU to just 15.4% shooting in the first quarter. By the end of the opening period, the Rams trailed 15-7.

NCU's offensive struggles continued in the second quarter, shooting just 13.3% from the field and going 0-7 from beyond the arc. Despite strong efforts from captains Brycelyn Brewster and Kaitlyn VanderPloeg, who combined for key baskets, the Rams entered halftime down 25-12.

After the break, NCU found some offensive rhythm, with Savi Rael and freshman Alexa Reddig each knocking down three-pointers. The Rams put up 13 points in the third quarter, but the Viking's efficient shooting (64.7% in the quarter) widened the deficit to 50-25 heading into the fourth.

The fourth quarter saw NCU's best offensive stretch, scoring 18 points on 35.7% shooting while converting 8-10 from the free-throw line. Kaitlyn VanderPloeg battled hard in the paint, finishing with a team-high 10 points and 11 rebounds for her 12th double-double of the season. Brewster also contributed 10 points and 6 rebounds. Lydia Schroeder added 4 points off the bench, hitting all her free throw attempts. Despite their improved play late, the Rams couldn't overcome BLC's well-rounded attack and fell 63-43.

Top Performers:

• Kaitlyn VanderPloeg: 10 points, 11 rebounds, and 2 blocks
• Brycelyn Brewster: 10 points and 6 rebounds

Looking Ahead:

With the regular season concluded, the Rams turn their focus to the NCCAA DII North Regional Tournament on March 3-5. NCU will play Trinity Bible College on March 3rd starting at 4:45 PM in Ankeny, IA. 

All fans are encouraged to tune into the official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (X) pages for updates on women's basketball and all things NCU Athletics.