Posted: Nov 01, 2025

#2 Lady Cats Defend Home Court with Statement Win over #10 Indiana Wesleyan

MCKENZIE, Tenn. - The No. 2 Bethel Lady Wildcats protected their home floor with a second half explosion Saturday afternoon, taking down No. 10 Indiana Wesleyan 66–52 inside Crisp Arena. With the win, Bethel improved to 4–0 on the young season and extended its home winning streak to 18 games.

After a slow start saw Bethel trail 14–9 at the end of the first quarter, the Lady Cats found their rhythm behind Mikee Buchanan, who poured in 19 points, including three from beyond the arc and a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line. Buchanan's leadership helped spark a 20-point third quarter.

Micah Hart added 18 points and eight rebounds while attacking both ends of the floor, and MJ Simmons posted a double-double performance with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Hallie Turner anchored the offense with poise, finishing with seven points and a game-high four assists.

The Lady Cats trailed at halftime, 31–27 but exploded in the second half—outscoring Indiana Wesleyan 39–21. Bethel shot 42 percent from the field while holding the Wildcats from Marion to just 34 percent overall and a frigid 17 percent in the final quarter.

Indiana Wesleyan was led by Ayla Krygier with 15 points and six rebounds, while Emily Mattingly chipped in 13.

Bethel's defensive pressure proved the difference down the stretch, forcing 12 turnovers and converting them into 10 points.

Coach Chris Nelson praised the team's composure after the win.

"That was a top 10 battle, and our girls responded the way a championship team should," the coach said. "We defended, we shared the ball, and when it mattered most, we executed."

The Lady Cats a 24-20 advantage in points in the paint and won the rebounding battle 33–26. Bethel closed the game on a 19–5 run, sealing another signature victory to remain unbeaten.

Bethel (4–0) will look to carry its momentum on the road next week, traveling to the Campbellsville, Kentucky Showcase to take on Stephens and Indiana Southeast in non-conference play.