January 3, 2026
Pilots Upset Foresters for First Ranked Opponent Win Since 2021
MISHAWAKA, Ind. ---The Bethel Pilots (11-4, 2-3) defeated the No. 20 Huntington University Foresters (11-4, 3-2) on Saturday afternoon in the Gates Gymnasium.
The win marks Bethel's first win over an NAIA ranked team this season, and the first since the Pilots' 82-74 win over then-ranked No. 20 Olivet Nazarene (Oct. 30, 2021).
Isabel Scales was the leading scorer (19 points), shooting 41.7 percent from the floor while posting eight boards and two steals.
Mariah Claywell posted 16 points, while Olivia Nickerson picked up ten.
Jazmyn Smith led the team in total rebounds (5-5) while Hannah Ruddle remained perfect beyond the arc (2-2).
With the win, freshman Izzy Nooe ranks fifth in the Crossroads League for total assists (54).
The Bethel Pilots came out strong with a four-point lead in the first, following a layup by Mariah Claywell (8:10, 4-0).
Huntington's Annaka Nelson and Lauryn Merritt put the final points of the quarter on the board, as the Foresters led 14-10.
The Pilots outshot the Foresters by six in the second, with Mariah Claywell, Olivia Nickerson, and Hannah Ruddle making every attempted triple.
Huntington showcased their best offense in the final quarter, shooting 33.3 percent from beyond the arc while recording 26 points.
With a tight two point margin on the board (64-62), Bethel held their lead, picking up four free points at the charity stripe to win the game 68-62.
Head Coach Scott Polsgrove shared, "Today was a great team win. Balanced scoring, great rebounding from multiple players, and contributions from everyone."
The Bethel Pilots will next compete on Wed, Jan. 7 against the Spring Arbor University Cougars. Tip-off is set for 5 PM in the American 1 Credit Union Arena.
For more information about Bethel Pilots Athletics, check out bupilots.com or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or X by searching @bupilots or #TheRightWayToPlay.