Women’s Basketball Says Goodbye to Seniors

MISHAWAKA—Saturday, Feb. 20, the Bethel Women’s Basketball team celebrated the careers of its two seniors. Both Jessica Erwin and Kelsey Brickner are leaving Bethel University with decorated careers.  

Kelsey Brickner, an exercise science major from Goshen, Indiana, leaves Bethel a 1,000-point scorer. She was honored by being named in the All-Crossroads Newcomer team in 2018. She is a two-time All-Crossroads League Honorable Mention, and she was also named to the Preseason All-Crossroads League second team this season. 

“Kelsey has become a better shooter this season,” said Coach Doug Porter, “She was solid in her first two seasons but fell off last season and we were able to get her back on track. I am extremely proud of her work ethic on developing her shot.” 

Jessica Erwin, an elementary education major from Springfield, Ohio, also leaves Bethel a 1,000-point scorer. She broke into the 1,000-point club on Jan. 30 against Grace College. She became the twenty-fifth player in Bethel history to achieve that honor. Erwin was named a 2019 All-Crossroads League Honorable Mention.  

“Jess has really gained a lot of confidence in her game over the past two seasons.” said Coach Porter, “She’s been able to contribute a lot at both ends of the court and has been so aggressive getting to the basket. This season, I have been so glad to see how much she’s improved on getting to the hoop, and then in turn, getting to the foul line.” 

Heading into next season, the Pilots will be without two of their key scorers, but Coach Porter believes that his team is more than capable of performing at a high level without them there. 

I think our younger players have learned from Kelsey and Jess that this conference isn’t easy,” said Coach Porter, “Although I think that Kelsey and Jess have laid the path for the younger guys to elevate their game for next season. 

The Women’s Basketball team edged out a win against the Goshen Maple Leafs, 88-82. Brickner left the Weikamp Athletic Center with a stat line of sixteen points, three rebounds, and two assists. Erwin exploded for the Pilots with thirty-two points, nine rebounds, and two assists. 

For more information on the Women’s Basketball team, visit www.bupilots.com.