MINOT, N.D. — Bemidji State University (8-13, 5-12 NSIC) fell to Minot State
University (10-14, 7-10 NSIC), 77-69, despite a strong start with a 21-17 lead after
the first quarter. Minot State secured the win with a decisive 26-point final
quarter, overcoming Bemidji State’s 34 points in the paint.

Bemidji State began the first quarter with a strong offensive push, opening the
scoring with Evyn Eppinga’s three-pointer, assisted by Tieryn Plasch. Notably,
Eppinga’s performance was marked by attempting a season-high 23 field goals,
showcasing her aggressive play throughout the game. Aubrey Heyer extended the early
lead with another three-pointer, prompting a timeout from Minot State. The Beavers
capitalized on turnovers, with Gabrielle Fineday and Eppinga sinking additional
three-point shots to maintain momentum. Minot State countered with points in the
paint, closing the gap slightly, but Bemidji State’s defense held firm, allowing
only 17 points. Eppinga nailed another 3-pointer with four seconds remaining,
assisted by Ashlynne Guenther, to secure a 21–17 lead for Bemidji State at the end
of the first quarter.

Bemidji State started the second quarter with a quick three-pointer by Eppinga at
9:41, assisted by Fineday, pushing the lead to 24–17. Despite Minot State closing
the gap with a layup and a fast-break score, Bemidji State maintained their edge
through timely defensive rebounds and a scoring layup by Heyer at 6:40, extending
the lead to 28–23. As the quarter progressed, Bemidji State continued to execute in
the paint, highlighted by Guenther’s jumper at 4:11, keeping the team ahead at
30–25. In the final minutes, they solidified their position with successful free
throws by Kendra Syverson and a layup by Eppinga, closing the quarter at 36–31. The
Beavers outscored their hosts 15–14 in this quarter, maintaining a narrow lead.

In the third quarter, the visitors maintained their edge over Minot State by
starting with a layup from Beth Bolte to extend the lead. Despite turnovers from
both sides early in the quarter, Bemidji State capitalized on a crucial steal by
Fineday, leading to a jumper by Plasch that reinforced their momentum. Minot State
attempted to close the gap with a few key baskets, but Bemidji State responded
effectively with timely free throws from Plasch, which helped maintain their
advantage. The quarter concluded with Bemidji State leading 55–51, as they
successfully held off Minot’s late push.

The fourth quarter began with Bemidji State maintaining a narrow lead. Sam Veto
initiated the scoring with a jumper, extending the advantage to 57-51. As the
quarter progressed, Minot State responded with efficient shooting, including a
crucial three-pointer by Taryn Hamling that shifted the lead to Minot State at
61-60. Midway through the quarter, Plasch connected on a 3-pointer, briefly
reclaiming the lead for Bemidji State at 60-55. However, Minot State capitalized on
their opportunities in the paint and from beyond the arc to regain control. Despite
a late layup by Plasch, Minot State managed to extend their lead in the closing
minutes. The quarter concluded with Minot State securing a 77-69 victory, as Bemidji
State’s attempts to close the gap were hindered by Minot State’s steady free-throw
shooting and defensive rebounds.

Eppinga scored 22 points, including four 3-pointers, and contributed two steals.
Plasch added 18 points, converting all five of her free throw attempts. Fineday
posted nine points and recorded two rebounds. Veto contributed defensively with two
blocks and three rebounds.

Bemidji State is now 8-13 overall and 5-12 in NSIC competition, while Minot State
holds a 10-14 overall record with a 7-10 mark in NSIC play. In their next matchup,
Bemidji State will travel to face the University of Mary on Saturday, Feb. 7. The
game is set to tip off at 1:30 p.m. in Bismarck, North Dakota.

BISMARCK, N.D. — Bemidji State University (8-14, 5-13 NSIC) fell to the University
of Mary (20-7, 13-5 NSIC), 85-54, at McDowell Activity Center, with Mary securing a
45-31 advantage in rebounds. Despite scoring 34 points in the paint, the Beavers
were unable to overcome a 31-point deficit.

The first quarter commenced with Bemidji State finding their rhythm, keeping the
game close through strategic plays and defensive rebounds. Beth Bolte contributed
significantly with four points in the paint, and Tieryn Plasch connected on a
3-pointer to close within two points at 2:31. Despite these efforts, the Marauders
maintained a slight edge, capitalizing on both perimeter and inside scoring
opportunities. The quarter concluded with the Beavers trailing by six, with a score
of 19-13 in favor of the Marauders.

In the second quarter, Bemidji State struggled to maintain momentum against Mary.
Despite opening with a quick jumper from Ashlynne Guenther at 8:29, the Beavers
faced challenges with turnovers and missed opportunities. However, Evyn Eppinga
provided a spark with a couple of crucial layups, contributing to the team’s 16
points in the quarter. Mary capitalized on turnovers, extending their lead with
efficient shooting, including a fast-break 3-pointer by Brenna Dick at 6:05. The
home team maintained pressure, adding nine points off turnovers and finishing the
quarter strong. The score stood at 44–29 in favor of Mary at the close of the first
half.

Bemidji State began the third quarter with a strong offensive effort, highlighted by
Eppinga’s layup following an offensive rebound. Despite the Beavers’ efforts, Mary
continued to score effectively in the paint, widening their advantage early in the
quarter. Gabrielle Fineday contributed significantly with two 3-pointers, including
one on a fast break, keeping Bemidji State competitive. The team also capitalized on
turnovers, with Guenther converting a steal into a three-point play. In the closing
minutes, the Beavers managed to cut into the deficit with Eppinga’s free throws, but
Mary’s consistent scoring kept the lead intact. The quarter concluded with Mary
leading 67-48.

Bemidji State began the fourth quarter facing a significant deficit. The team
struggled offensively, converting just three field goals and missing all eight
3-point attempts. Despite difficulties, Plasch managed to score a key jumper at 7:25
to break a scoring drought. Defensively, the Beavers faced challenges containing
Mary’s inside game, as they allowed eight points in the paint. Although Bemidji
State secured six rebounds, they couldn’t capitalize on second-chance opportunities.
Mary’s free-throw efficiency widened the gap further. The quarter concluded with
Bemidji State trailing 85-54.

Eppinga led the team with 10 points, adding three assists. Guenther contributed nine
points, making four of five field goal attempts. Kendra Syverson posted three steals
and tallied four points. Bolte recorded six rebounds while scoring eight points.

Mary improved to 20-7 overall and 13-5 in NSIC play. The Beavers moved to 8-14
overall and 5-13 in NSIC competition. Looking ahead, Bemidji State will face
Northern State University on Thursday, Feb. 12. The game is set to tip off at 5:30
p.m. at the Sanford Center in Bemidji, Minnesota.