Sterling, Kan.—USM brought home a huge conference win in the new year on Saturday, January 3^rd as the Spire squad secured a triumphant and well-earned 71-59 victory over the previously undefeated Sterling College Warriors at the Gleason Center in Sterling, Kansas. This hard-fought battle brought the Spires' record to 9-5 overall and 6-2 in the KCAC.

The afternoon opened with the Warriors initially taking the lead, but it was not long before the Spires responded forcefully. The first quarter concluded with Sterling ahead by a slim margin of 14-10, after a strong defensive performance marked by five blocks from 6'7 center Cady Huffman. The second quarter witnessed the Spires overpowering the Warriors on the defensive side that turned the tides for USM. Addison Tower and Saige Grampsas led the Spires' offensive surge, with Grampsas sinking a crucial 3-pointer to snatch the lead, rounding the half with a one-point advantage at 24-23.

The second half was pivotal as the Spires, led by Grampsas who consistently performed both offensively and defensively, substantially widened their lead. She amassed multiple 3-pointers and orchestrated quick fast-break points, propelling the Spires to a commanding 48-35 lead by the end of the period. The fourth and final quarter saw the completion of the Spires' effort to secure their win, with continued strong defense and key 3-pointers from Grampsas and Tower, concluding the game with a solid victory of 71-59.

The Spires will come home to face the Oklahoma Wesleyan University Eagles on Wednesday, January 7^th with a 5:30 p.m. tip-off at Ryan Sports Center in Leavenworth, Kansas, as they look to continue their successful conference run. Top performers for the Spires included Addison Tower, who led with 17 points, and Saige Grampsas, who not only scored 16 points but also contributed significantly across the board with 9 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals. Cady Huffman also stood out defensively with 9 rebounds and 5 blocks, and 10 points emphasizing the gritty capabilities of the USM group.