WICHITA, Kan. — Friends University Women's Basketball held off the Baker University Wildcats, 76-70, tonight (Oct. 27) to secure their first win of the season in their home opener.
The Falcons came out strong, building a 45-24 lead by halftime. However, Baker responded in the third quarter, outscoring Friends 27-14 to cut into the deficit. Despite a late push from the Wildcats, the Falcons held on through a closely contested fourth quarter to secure the 76-70 victory.
Four Falcons finished in double figures. Kennadi Jackson led the way with 15 points, five rebounds and two steals. Raegan Bugaj added 13 points, seven steals and six assists. Bella Slocum recorded a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, while KK Peeler contributed 11 points, five assists, five rebounds and three steals.
Friends shot 38.2% from the field, connecting on 26 of 68 attempts, and knocked down eight three-pointers at a 36.4% clip. The Falcons controlled the boards, pulling down 43 rebounds, including 20 offensive rebounds, compared to Baker's 32. Friends also recorded 18 steals and forced 25 turnovers, converting those opportunities into 31 points.
Baker was led by Quinn Carpenter, who scored 15 points and added three assists and two steals. Gabby Rose finished with 14 points, going 6-for-6 from the free-throw line while dishing out three assists. Corrine Cole recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds, including nine defensive boards, and added two steals. Addison Tower contributed eight points, five rebounds and three steals for the Wildcats.
The Falcons improve to 1-1 on the season and will return to action next Wednesday (Nov. 4) against Mid-America Christian University. Tipoff is set for 5 p.m. in Oklahoma City, Okla.
