Salina, Kan.- The University of Saint Mary Women's basketball team took on Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes on Saturday, resulting in a 59-55 win. The Spire's overall record is now 8-2, and they continue their strong start to KCAC play at 6-0.

The Spires got off to a rocky start to begin the game by being down six points. A three by Alanis Delago helped the Spires cut the lead down to three. Saint Mary looked to gain the lead as the first quarter was ending, and shots from Keely Barnard and Delgado put them up one with less than four minutes to go. Nine combined points created by Tanea Sims and Aamold put the Spires up by six to end the quarter. As the second quarter went on, both teams went back and forth. Kansas Wesleyan came within one after a big three-pointer was made. A foul by Saint Mary gave KWU free throws and the lead heading into the break. 

In the second half, Saint Mary regained the lead with two made free throws by Paige Pendley, with under five minutes to go in the quarter. The Spires maintained a three-point lead as the Coyotes continued to pester Saint Mary. With two minutes left, a jump shot by Sims put the Spires up by five. Alyche Brown hit a free throw to extend the lead back to three. Saint Mary secured the win with a critical defensive rebound and made free throws down the stretch. Sims led the team with 13 points on the night, while Aamold and Delgado had 12. 

Up Next

The Spires will host Haskell for a non-conference match-up at 7:30 p.m. on Monday at Ryan Sports Center.