BAKERSFIELD, CA – Despite a spirited effort at the Gil Bishop Sports Center, the Bakersfield College women's basketball team fell 81-71 to the Reedley Tigers in their home opener on Wednesday night.
The Renegades started with energy, edging Reedley 14-12 in the first quarter, with a solid defense. However, the Tigers capitalized on BC's turnovers and foul trouble in the second quarter, outscoring the Renegades 24-20 to take a two-point lead into halftime.
The third quarter saw both teams trading baskets, with Bakersfield showing resilience to stay within striking distance. Despite trailing 66-60 entering the final period, the Renegades couldn't overcome Reedley's balanced attack and timely shooting. Bakersfield committed 27 turnovers, which the Tigers converted into critical points to maintain their lead down the stretch.
Freshman guard, Sara Shein led Bakersfield with 15 points, including a key three-pointer that kept the game close in the third quarter. She also added five rebounds and two steals in her 34 minutes. Teammate Alexis Killebrew came off the bench to score 14 points, shooting 4-for-9 from beyond the arc to give the Renegades a much-needed spark while sophomore Kilah Monje battled in the paint, posting a double-double with 8 points and 13 rebounds, including eight on the offensive glass.
Despite the loss, BC shot 35.4% from the field, including 27.8% from three-point range, and converted 71.4% of their free throws. The Renegades outrebounded Reedley 55-49, including a game-high 19 offensive rebounds.
Up next, Bakersfield will host Lemoore College on Wednesday, November 27th for a 5:00 pm tip-off.
