Briar Cliff and Dordt Advance to the NAIA Women's Basketball Fab Four!
(Sioux City, Iowa) - Briar Cliff and Dordt women's basketball have advanced to the NAIA Fab Four in 2025.
(Sioux City, Iowa) - Briar Cliff and Dordt women's basketball have advanced to the NAIA Fab Four in 2025.
Briar Cliff advanced by winning the Duer Quadrant with a 65-43 victory over Govenors State (IL).
The Chargers outscored the Jaguars in each quarter. The Chargers built a steady lead, with quarter scores of 16-13, 19-13, 15-8, and 15-9, culminating in their 22-point victory.
Briar Cliff's balanced attack was led by Adrianna Webster, who contributed 16 points and eight rebounds, and Mallie McNair, who added 15 points and seven rebounds. Kennedy Benne was a standout on defense, securing a double-double with 12 rebounds and five points, alongside five assists. Rachel Langel also played a crucial role, scoring 10 points and grabbing nine rebounds.
Governors State struggled offensively, shooting only 25% from the field. Zareia Chevre was a bright spot for the Jaguars, scoring 18 points and grabbing eight rebounds. Tabetha Jones also landed in double-digits, adding 17 points and seven rebounds.
With this victory, Briar Cliff advances to the semifinals for the sixth time. The Chargers will face Indiana Wesleyan on Monday, March 24 at 8 p.m. CT.
Dordt advanced earlier in the day by winning the Naismith Quadrant with an 82-61 win over Marian (IN).
The game began with Dordt setting the pace, leading 23-11 by the end of the first quarter. They maintained their momentum into the second quarter, extending their lead to 38-21 by halftime. The Defenders did not give up their lead en route to an 82-61 final score.
Key to Dordt's success was the stellar performance of Macy Sievers, who notched a triple-double with 20 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Her efficiency was evident as she shot 5-8 from the field and a perfect 8-8 from the free-throw line. Janie Van Donge also contributed significantly, scoring 21 points and grabbing nine rebounds. Willow Bleeker added 11 points and showcased her defensive skills with four steals.
Despite a valiant effort, the Knights offense was unable to overcome Dordt's defensive pressure. Kiley McNally stood out for Marian, scoring 17 points off the bench with a perfect 7-7 shooting performance. Abbey McNally and Madisyn Bailey each contributed 12 points, but it wasn't enough to close the gap.
Dordt's shooting efficiency was a significant factor in their victory, as they shot 49.1% from the field and an impressive 92.3% from the free-throw line. In contrast, Marian managed 39.3% from the field and 77.8% from the line. Dordt also controlled the boards, outrebounding Marian 37-27.
With this victory, Dordt advances to the semifinals for the third time in four years as the team continues its pursuit of a second title against Bethel (Tenn.) on Monday, March 24, at 6p.m. CT.