Kansas Wesleyan Beats Bethany in an electrifying showdown in the Smoky Hills Rivalry Game!

A Rivalry Renewed: Smoky Hills Showdown Brings Electrifying Atmosphere to Salina

Photo by Daren Hawkins writer

As Kansas Wesleyan University and Bethany University squared off in the popular Smoky Hills Showdown on January 22nd, a rivalry as fierce as the wild storms took center stage in the heart of Kansas. Fans from both teams were cheering their teams on in what ended up being a blockbuster of a game, and the crowded gym in Salina was electrifying. From the opening tip, it was clear this would be a contest to remember with each team matching the other basket for basket, both teams came out on top. With three straight three-pointers in the first quarter, All-time scoring leader Alex Littlejohn gave Kansas Wesleyan, a team noticed for its quick-paced offense, an early lead. Under the leadership of their star point guard, whose spectacular drives to the hoop put the Swedes within striking distance, the team answered with tenacity and will.

Kansas Wesleyan’s Second-Half Surge: Alex Littlejohn Dominates the Paint

At halftime, KDUB held a narrow 47-38 lead, and their student section, clad in purple and white, erupted with chants of, “This is our house!” with the coyotes continuing to dominate the whole second half! After halftime, Bethany’s defense became tougher, but the Coyotes were unaffected. In the second half, Alex Littlejohn scored 25 points and pulled down 12 rebounds, confirming his dominance in the paint. His dominant presence beneath the hoop enabled Kansas Wesleyan to break away, establishing a solid lead at the end of the third quarter, 88-68, after a 15-4 run.

Coyotes’ Fourth Quarter Dominance Seals the Deal

Photo by Daren Hawkins writer

The Coyotes had tremendous control during the fourth quarter. Kansas Wesleyan outscored Bethany and shot an amazing 66.1% from the field, dominating both ends of the court (41-62). With 26 points and 12 rebounds, Alex Littlejohn led his team to victory. Hunter and Hale, teammates, contributed 19 and 22, accordingly, to the offensive assault. Kansas Wesleyan’s dominating 101-77 victory at the final buzzer made their dominance in the Smoky Hills Showdow clear.The victory not only solidified Kansas Wesleyan’s dominance in the Smoky Hills Showdown but also boosted their standing in the conference race. As for the rivalry, this game added another thrilling chapter to the storied history between the two schoolsFans can only hope for another high-stakes matchup since both teams are probably going to face one other again in the postseason. The Swedes will have to wait for their chance at retribution until then, while the Coyotes can enjoy their well-deserved victory.