Balanced Bethel Starts Fast, Cruises Past Johnson (TN) to Stay Unbeaten

MCKENZIE, Tenn. - Bethel University's women's basketball team used a red-hot first half and balanced scoring across the roster to remain unbeaten, defeating Johnson (TN) 77–58 on Friday afternoon inside Crisp Arena.

The Lady Wildcats (3–0) erupted for 55 points in the first two quarters, shooting over 60% from the field and connecting on 10 three-pointers in the game. The home team led 24–13 after the opening quarter and extended the margin to 55–23 at halftime, effectively putting the game out of reach before the break.

Sophomore Micah Hart paced Bethel with 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting, adding three steals, three assists, and three rebounds in an all-around performance. Sophomore Adalyn Koelling provided a spark off the bench with 14 points, including three treys, while Madison Hart chipped in 11 points and four boards. Lauren Bryant was three of four from the floor in limited minutes, scoring nine.

Bethel's offense hummed with precision, tallying 21 assists on 30 field goals, while the defense forced 13 turnovers and held Johnson to just 34% shooting through the first three quarters.

Johnson (0–1) was led by Jadyn Cooper, who poured in 18 points and grabbed seven rebounds, including a scorching 13-point fourth quarter as the Lady Royals closed the gap late. Megan Biliter added eight points and four boards, and Emery Tollett contributed six rebounds and four points.

After Bethel's dominant first half, Johnson showed fight in the final frame, shooting 64% and outscoring the Wildcats 22–11 in the period. However, the early deficit proved insurmountable as Bethel's depth and ball movement controlled most of the contest.

The Lady Wildcats finished with a 46.9% shooting clip, including 41.7% from beyond the arc, and outscored Johnson 38–16 in the paint. Bethel's bench poured in 35 points, showcasing the team's depth heading into November.

Coach Chris Nelson's squad will look to build on the 3–0 start as they continue non-conference play tomorrow at 4 p.m. against Indiana Wesleyan.