Lady Wildcats Bow Out of Conference Tournament After Tough Battle with Cumberland

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. -The Bethel University Lady Wildcats saw their conference tournament run come to a close Thursday afternoon, falling in straight sets to Cumberland University (25–21, 25–18, 25–8) in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Bethel came out strong in the opening frame, trading points early with the Phoenix behind the steady play of outside hitter Katie Pennington, who tallied a team-high eight kills on 38 attempts. However, a late surge by Cumberland proved decisive as the Phoenix capitalized on key Bethel errors to take the set, 25–21.

The Lady Wildcats responded with determination in the second set, improving their offensive rhythm and hitting an efficient .167 as a team—their best percentage of the match. Clara Feresin and Emma Cart each contributed timely attacks, while Camila Sandoval directed the offense with 10 assists and added four digs defensively. Despite the improved effort, Bethel could not slow down Cumberland's balanced attack led by Lila Cade, who posted 15 kills with an impressive .438 hitting percentage.

In the final frame, the Phoenix found their rhythm and closed the match with a dominant .500 hitting clip. Bethel's defensive specialist Ava Donaldson led the Wildcats with 17 digs, while Clara Sestini added 15. Maia Seron and Kennedi Morrison each recorded two block assists as Bethel fought to slow Cumberland's front line.

Cumberland finished the match hitting .298 as a team with 50 total kills, compared to Bethel's 20 kills and .042 hitting percentage.

Despite the loss, the Lady Wildcats showed resilience throughout the season and in tournament play. Their continued growth and competitive spirit underlined a year of steady progress and promising development across the roster.

Bethel closes its 2025 campaign with pride, setting the foundation for another strong push in next year's conference race.