BEMIDJI, Minn. – Bemidji State University women's basketball fell to Northern State University, 77-60, on Friday at the BSU Gymnasium.
 
Bemidji State trailed Northern State 25-14 at the end of the first quarter. Bemidji State shot six-for-15 from the field, including one-for-four from beyond the arc, and converted one-of-two from the free-throw line. Erin Barrette led Bemidji State with five points in this quarter, while the team scored 10 points in the paint and gained four points off the bench. NSU held a rebounding edge with nine total rebounds compared to Bemidji State's five and was more efficient from the free-throw line, converting four-of-five attempts.
 
During the second quarter, Bemidji State outscored NSU 17-14, thanks to a balanced offensive effort and a strong defensive presence. Bemidji State shot 50 percent from the field, making seven of 14 attempts, and added two points from the free-throw line. The team also showcased their ability to control the paint, scoring 12 points inside while limiting NSU to six. On the defensive end, Bemidji State recorded one block and one steal, while the team committed five personal fouls and three turnovers.
 
In the third quarter, Bemidji State struggled offensively, scoring only seven points on three-for-14 shooting from the field, including one-for-four from beyond the arc. The team did not attempt any free throws and committed three turnovers while recording one steal and five rebounds, all defensive. NSU capitalized with a stronger inside presence, scoring 12 points in the paint and outrebounding Bemidji State 13 to five, leading to a 17-point quarter and extending their lead.
 
Bemidji State put up a strong effort in the fourth quarter, outscoring NSU 22-21. The home team excelled from beyond the arc, making four of nine 3-pointers, with Alayna Suprenand contributing two of those and a total of eight points in the quarter. Rachel Koenig also played a significant role with multiple successful shots, including a perfect four-for-four from the free-throw line. Despite Bemidji State's offensive efforts, NSU maintained their lead with effective scoring in the paint and took advantage of Bemidji's seven personal fouls.
 
Erin Barrette marked her season high with 19 points, leading the Bemidji St. basketball team with a strong shooting performance by making 7 of 12 field goals, including 3 of 7 from beyond the arc. Alayna Suprenand added 9 points, hitting 3 of 6 field goals and making 2 of 5 three-point attempts. Rachel Koenig also played a key role by scoring 10 points on 4 of 7 shooting, with 2 of 2 free throws, and providing 3 assists. Aubrey Heyer was notable on defense, securing 7 rebounds and achieving 2 blocks and 2 steals.
 
Rianna Fillipi led the Wolves with 18 points, making seven of eleven field goal attempts, and also contributed defensively with two steals. Alayna Benike was a key player with 15 points and nine rebounds. Madelyn Bragg excelled at the free-throw line, converting six of eight attempts to score 12 points in total. Decontee Smith made notable contributions with two steals, adding to her nine points. 
 
Bemidji State holds an overall record of two wins and five losses, with a conference record of zero wins and three losses in the NSIC. NSU has an overall record of five wins and four losses, holding a conference record of two wins and one loss in the NSIC.
 
BSU basketball is back in action Saturday against Minnesota State University Moorhead at 3:30 p.m. The Beavers will then look to host St. Cloud State University Dec. 19 for Ugly Sweater Night. For more information on the Bemidji State women's basketball program, tickets or schedules, visit BSUBeavers.com, follow the Beavers on X (@BSUBeaversWBB), like them on Facebook (facebook.com/BSUBeavers) and like them on Instagram (@BSUBeaversWBB).
 
Located on the shore of Lake Bemidji, Bemidji State University sponsors 15 varsity athletic programs with NCAA Division I men's and women's hockey membership in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, while its 13 NCAA Division II programs hold membership in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).