OWENSBORO, Ky.— Montreat College's women's basketball squad traveled to compete in the Kentucky Bluegrass Classic, a nonconference two-day event starting on Friday. Six basketball programs competed in the competition, and the Cavaliers played the hosting Brescia University Bearcats on Friday. The Cavs fell after 40 minutes of play by a score of 75-66. Montreat stands at 0-3 overall after the loss. Brescia holds a 1-0 overall record following its season opener.
 
The visitors began the first quarter effectively, with Rymiah Sanders and Sarah Williams connecting on early 3-pointers to quickly establish a lead. Ayanna Varela's defensive rebound and subsequent score helped maintain momentum, while a steal and fast-break layup from Samiah Mitchell further extended the Cavaliers' advantage. Despite Brescia's attempts to close the gap, the Cavs capitalized on turnovers and fast-break opportunities, with Bayleigh Winkler contributing key points in the paint. As the quarter progressed, Montreat's defense remained strong, forcing multiple turnovers and limiting the Bearcats' scoring chances. Ania Sands and Mitchell facilitated a series of scoring plays, ensuring the away side held a narrow lead. The quarter concluded with the Cavaliers ahead 17-16.
 
The second quarter started with a quick layup from Sands to retain the edge. Defensive efforts were highlighted by a steal from Williams, although Brescia responded with a 3-point basket. The Cavaliers faced a brief scoring drought but regained momentum with a jumper from Winkler and a series of buckets from Sanders and Trinety Dajuste. The quarter saw multiple lead changes, with Montreat briefly pulling ahead by four points after a free throw by Dajuste. The hosts responded with steady scoring to retake the advantage. The period ended with a late jumper by Winkler, but a Bearcat free throw allowed Brescia to finish the half leading 33-32.
 
Montreat faced a challenging third quarter as it attempted to close the gap against Brescia. The home side scored eight straight points to start the frame. Key contributions from Dajuste and Williams provided some resistance, but the Bearcats' inside scoring solidified their control. As the period progressed, the Cavaliers' efforts to narrow the deficit were met with mixed success. Se'Nai Camper and Sanders put points on the board late in the quarter, but Brescia's consistent scoring kept it ahead. The quarter wrapped up with the Bearcats maintaining a double-digit lead at 55-45.
 
Montreat made a strong push in the fourth quarter, starting with a 3-pointer by Laila Harvey that brought the score to 57-48. Sanders added to the momentum with a layup, further narrowing the gap. The Cavs continued to press with efficient shooting, as Ella Kate Walraven sank a triple to keep the team within striking distance at 59-53. The visiting team stayed competitive with contributions from Winkler and Williams, who both scored to keep Montreat close. However, the Bearcats' advantage was bolstered by timely baskets. Sanders and Varela drilled shots in the final minute, but the contest finished with the Cavs trailing Brescia 75-66.
 
Sanders led the squad with 19 points, including two 3-pointers, and four assists. The Durham, N.C. native also tied for the team-lead with five rebounds. Williams matched Sanders with five boards. Winkler added 16 points and recorded four rebounds. Sands showcased a defensive effort with three steals and three assists. Varela chipped in with five points and collected four rebounds.

"We fought really hard tonight against a tough Brescia team," said head coach Jamie Moore. "We definitely saw some growth, but Brescia exploited our weaknesses and that ultimately lead to the loss. I do believe if our team can continue on this path of growth, our freshman will be major contributors and we will have a great season."
 
As a team, Montreat shot 43.1 percent from the floor (25-58 FG) and 25.0 percent from beyond the arc (5-20 3-pt FG). The Cavs went 11-for-18 from the stripe (61.1 percent). Brescia had more rebounds (52-31) and assists (12-11) than Montreat, but the visitors tallied more steals (8-7) and blocks (2-1) than the Bearcats. The Cavaliers also had fewer turnovers than Brescia in the matchup (16-14).
 
In their second game of the event, the Cavaliers will play the Oakland City University Mighty Oaks on Saturday at 4 p.m.