The Bethany College women's basketball team returned to action this past week.  The Swedes hosted rival Kansas Wesleyan University on Thursday before heading to McPherson College on Saturday for a Valentine's Day showdown.

Bethany looked to come out on the winning end of a heated battle against Kansas Wesleyan University.  The Swedes found themselves down by 13 at halftime.  The squad could not defend the Coyote quick ball movement and ball control nor gain a lead in the second half, falling to Kansas Wesleyan 72-59.  Senior Roni Whitman and junior Jade Pihl each led the Bethany offense with nine points.  Senior RaChelle Gaylord and sophomore Claire Cole both contributed seven.  Senior Nancy Castro collected seven rebounds.  Whitman had six assists while freshman Rhys Pihl and her sister J. Pihl had five assists and four assists, respectively.  R. Pihl also had two steals.

Looking to bounce back against McPherson Saturday night, Bethany was able to do just that.  The Swedes had an eight point lead at halftime, but the Bulldogs made a comeback in the second half, even taking the lead at one point.  Despite shooting woes at the free throw line, shooting only 58%, and a messy game that involved 49 total turnovers, the Swedes were able to edge the Bulldogs 52-51.  R. Pihl led the offensive attack with 13 points, followed by Whitman with eight.  Whitman and Castro had four assists and three assists, respectively.  In addition, Whitman grabbed five steals as Castro and R. Pihl each had three.

Bethany now heads into their last week of conference play.  The Swedes travel to Southwestern College on Thursday, February 19th for a 6:00 pm tip off.  They will then turn around and host Tabor on Saturday, February 21st for their last home game and senior night.  Game time is set for 5:00 pm.  Bethany is now 6-10 in the KCAC and 11-15 overall.s