BEMIDJI, Minn. – Bemidji State University Women's Basketball defeated St. Cloud State University, 78-74, on Thursday at home, breaking a four-game losing streak. 
 
BSU started the first quarter strong with Rachel Koenig scoring the opening layup, assisted by Tieryn Plasch. Aubrey Heyer made a key defensive play with a steal followed by a fast-break layup at 8:02, contributing to Bemidji's early lead. Erin Barrette added to the momentum with another layup, pushing the score to 8-4 in favor of Bemidji State. Despite turnovers, Tieryn Plasch delivered a pivotal performance by hitting two 3-pointers, the second of which reclaimed the lead for Bemidji State at 18-17 just before the quarter ended. Overall, Bemidji State ended the first quarter ahead with an 18-17 lead over St. Cloud State.
 
Bemidji State started the second quarter strong, with Erin Barrette scoring a layup at 9:40, assisted by Ella Giorgi, who also added a block shortly after. The team maintained solid defense, with Janette Hanni contributing two defensive rebounds and two successful free throws by the 7:00 mark, extending the lead to 24-19. Ashlynne Guenther capitalized on a fast break opportunity to score a layup at 5:20, and Tieryn Plasch hit three 3-pointers in the quarter, including one at 3:30, helping Bemidji State increase their advantage. The Beavers' largest lead sat at 15 points late in the second quarter. Despite a few turnovers, Bemidji State's defense forced eight turnovers from the Huskies, contributing to a 21-9 scoring edge in the quarter and a 39-26 lead by the end.
 
In the third quarter, Bemidji State held a slim lead over SCSU, despite being outscored 26-17. Rachel Koenig was instrumental for Bemidji State, contributing points with a jumper at the 6:45 mark and securing key rebounds. Ashlynne Guenther also added to the scoring with a layup and subsequent free throws. In the final minutes, Aubrey Heyer was effective at the line, hitting two free throws to extend Bemidji State's lead. Brooke Theis closed the quarter with a layup and free throw, helping Bemidji State maintain their edge.
 
Bemidji State and the Huskies both scored 22 points in the fourth quarter, leading to a tightly contested finish. Ashlynne Guenther made a significant defensive play with a block early in the quarter, while Erin Barrette and Brooke Theis faced challenges with turnovers and missed shots. Tieryn Plasch contributed effectively with assists and free throws, while Rachel Koenig played a key role in the closing minutes with critical layups and free throws, extending the lead. Despite the Huskies' efforts to close the gap, Bemidji State maintained a slight edge, securing a 78-74 victory.
 
Tieryn Plasch led Bemidji State with an impressive performance, scoring 22 points on 7-of-11 shooting, including 6-of-8 from three-point range. This marked her first career game scoring 20 or more points. Plasch also contributed significantly with seven assists and three steals. Rachel Koenig was a key scorer as well, adding 20 points while maintaining perfect accuracy at the free-throw line, going 6-for-6. This was also Koenig's first career game with 20 or more points. Aubrey Heyer was another standout, scoring 13 points and leading the team with seven successful free throws. Heyer also contributed defensively with two steals. Janette Hanni made her presence felt on defense, securing two steals and providing two assists while grabbing five rebounds.
 
Bemidji State holds an overall record of three wins and six losses, with a conference record of one win and four losses in the NSIC. St. Cloud State has an overall record of six wins and five losses, achieving three wins and three losses within the NSIC conference.
 
Bemidji State secured a victory in their latest game and will next face the University of Mary. The game is scheduled for December 21, 2024, at 1:30 p.m., taking place in Bismarck, N.D.
 
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).