Bemidji State University kicks off the 2026 half of the season with the University of Minnesota Duluth Saturday afternoon. The Beavers will host the Bulldogs with a 3:30 p.m. tipoff from the BSU Gymnasium.

BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji St. (6-6, 3-5 NSIC) fell to Minn. Duluth (10-2, 8-0 NSIC),
78-50, at BSU Gymnasium. The Bulldogs capitalized on 19 points off turnovers to
maintain their undefeated conference record.

Bemidji State opened the first quarter by capitalizing on turnovers, with Kassandra
Caron securing two steals early, leading to a layup and subsequent free throw that
provided an initial edge. Evyn Eppinga contributed with a three-pointer, assisting
in maintaining momentum. Despite these efforts, the Bulldogs responded with
consistent scoring, including a 3-pointer by Grace Counts that narrowed the gap.
Bemidji State’s defensive rebounds, particularly from Eppinga, were crucial in
limiting second chances, yet the visitors managed to pull ahead with a late surge
and fast break points. The quarter concluded with the Beavers trailing 18–14.

Bemidji State faced a challenging second quarter as Minn. Duluth’s offense found its
rhythm. Despite Caron and Eppinga’s efforts from the free-throw line, the Beavers
struggled to contain their opponent’s scoring in the paint and from beyond the arc.
Eppinga contributed with a key layup and free throws, but the Bulldogs’ shooting
accuracy extended their lead. The quarter closed with Bemidji State trailing 41–26.

In the third quarter, the Beavers struggled to contain Minn. Duluth, as the visitors
opened with a strong showing in the paint. Bemidji State’s Kendra Syverson provided
a brief respite with her successful free throws around the 5:30 mark, but turnovers
and fouls limited further momentum. Despite Ashlynne Guenther and MaCee Linow making
key baskets, the Bulldogs’ efficient shooting and defensive pressure extended their
lead. In the latter part of the quarter, Bemidji State found some rhythm as
Gabrielle Fineday connected on a 3-pointer, assisted by Guenther, and Caron scored
in the paint. However, Minn. Duluth countered effectively and closed the quarter
with a 3-pointer from Lexi Karge, leaving Bemidji State trailing 68–39.

In the fourth quarter, Bemidji State made strategic efforts to cut into Minn.
Duluth’s lead, starting with a layup from Caron at 9:01. Despite a challenging
shooting performance from the field, the Beavers capitalized on free throws, with
Eppinga converting two at the 7:49 mark, contributing to the team’s efforts to close
the gap. The Bulldogs responded with scoring from the paint, but Bemidji State’s
defense managed to limit their second-chance opportunities. The Beavers’ defensive
efforts included key rebounds by Lindsey Weiler and a block at 1:18, showcasing
their determination to remain competitive. The quarter ended with Bemidji State
scoring 11 points to Minn. Duluth’s 10, closing the game with a final score of 78-50
in favor of the visitors.

Eppinga scored 16 points and collected six rebounds, showcasing her accuracy with
seven successful free throws. Caron matched Eppinga with 16 points, converting six
field goals while also contributing defensively with two steals. Guenther added five
points and grabbed three rebounds, supporting the team’s efforts on the boards.
Weiler contributed with four rebounds and added a block to her defensive efforts.

Bemidji St. holds a record of 6-6 overall and 3-5 in NSIC competition. Minn. Duluth
stands at 10-2 overall and 8-0 in NSIC play. Looking ahead, the Beavers will host
Southwest Minnesota State University on Friday, Jan. 9 at BSU Gymnasium in Bemidji,
Minnesota. Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m.