The Grizzlies continued their dominated season run with an impressive 86-49 victory over Fort Hays Tech Northwest. The Grizzlies relentless defense and pressure kept Tech Northwest without any room to gain any positive momentum.
The first quarter set the tone for the night, with Butler forcing multiple turnovers early. Freshman guard Mya Mayberry opened with a steal that led to a free throw from sophomore forward Lucia Lara. Freshmen guard Keegan Yarick and forward Kenzie Galliart added key baskets, building an early 24-10 lead. Butler's defense was active and in constant pursuit of the ball, with freshman guard Ashley Singhateh and Lara grabbing critical steals to limit Fort Hays’ offensive opportunities.
In the second quarter, Butler's depth shone as freshman guard Destiny Smith drained a three-pointer to start the quarter, and Lara continued to dominate on both sides of the court.Sophomore forward Awa Jawara and Singhateh added to the scoring effort with layups, while the Grizzlies’ bench provided consistent support. By halftime, Butler had surged to an insurmountable 56-23 lead.
The second quarter showed Grizzlies’ continued dominance in the court, with Destiny Smith draining a three pointer to start the quarter. Jawara and Singhateh continued with the scoring effort with layups, while the Grizzlies’ bench provided consistent support. By halftime, Butler was up with a 56-23 lead.
For the second half of the game, the story remained the same, with the Grizzlies refusing to let up pressure on both offense and defense. On the offensive side, Galliart and Yarickexecuted sharp passes and lay-ups, maintaining the team's rhythm. Singhateh’s energy continued to fuel Butler’s pace, and Lara’s defensive rebounds kept Fort Hays from capitalizing on missed shots.
Fort Hays Tech Northwest’s Alba Garrido and Al’Asia Brown provided bright spots for their team, combining for a few key baskets, including a three-pointer by Brown late in the third quarter. However, Butler’s defensive intensity proved too much, as turnovers and missed opportunities plagued Fort Hays throughout the game.
The fourth quarter, Butler rotated their bench players, bringing fresh players and at the same time showing the team's depth and versatility. Sophomore forwards Mercy Wamet and freshman Jalyiah Manuel closed out the game with strong rebounding and second-chance points. Even in the final minutes, Butler maintained their pressure, securing the victory with a balanced team effort.