MANKATO, Minn. – Bemidji State University Women's Basketball fell to No. 11 Minnesota State University Mankato, 96-64, on Friday at Bresnan Arena in Mankato, Minnesota.
 
Bemidji State started the first quarter with Tieryn Plasch scoring a layup at the 8:15 mark to tie the game at 2-2. Ella Giorgi contributed with consecutive layups, assisted by Janette Hanni and Erin Barrette, bringing the score to a tie at 6-6. Despite BSU's efforts, including a block by Rachel Koenig and defensive rebounds by Ashlynne Guenther, MSU took control towards the end of the quarter, extending their lead to 21-10 by the quarter's conclusion.
 
In the second quarter, the Beavers scored 11 points, while the Mavericks added 21 points to their tally. Erin Barrette contributed a layup at 9:30, with an assist from Janette Hanni. Rachel Koenig followed with another layup, assisted by Aubrey Heyer, at 6:45. Bemidji St. faced challenges with turnovers, committing six in the quarter, and recorded five personal fouls, impacting their defensive efforts. Despite this, Tieryn Plasch made a significant play, hitting a 3-pointer with assistance from Sydney White, bringing the score to 19-35 at a crucial moment.
 
In the third quarter, Bemidji State scored 26 points, narrowly outscoring Minnesota State's 25 points. The team showed resilience, with Tieryn Plasch hitting two critical 3-pointers at 9:30 and 4:05, contributing significantly to Bemidji State's offensive efforts. Erin Barrette added to the scoring with a fast-break layup at 2:30, while Rachel Koenig and Ella Giorgi also contributed with key layups. Despite committing several fouls, Bemidji State capitalized on a few turnovers, allowing Sage Ganyo to score a fast-break layup with 0:30 left on the clock.
 
In the fourth quarter, Bemidji St. scored 17 points, with Rachel Koenig contributing a layup and a free throw early on, narrowing the gap to 72-50. Erin Barrette added two free throws at 4:11, while Ashlynne Guenther hit a 3-pointer with 1:16 left, bringing the score to 83-55. Sydney White and Aubrey Heyer each made a basket, but Minnesota State maintained their lead throughout, ultimately winning the quarter 29-17.
 
Erin Barrette stood out for Bemidji State with her defensive performance, recording two steals in their recent game. Sage Ganyo also contributed defensively with two steals, while adding 10 points on an efficient 4-for-5 shooting. Tieryn Plasch was a key offensive player, hitting three 3-pointers and securing a total of six rebounds. Ashlynne Guenther and Rachel Koenig both showcased their defensive skills with two blocks each, adding depth to the team's defensive efforts.
 
Bemidji State has an overall record of four wins and nine losses, and stands at two wins and seven losses in the NSIC conference. The Mavericks hold a strong overall record of 14 wins and two losses, remaining undefeated in the NSIC with a 10-0 conference record.
 
Following a loss in their most recent game, the Bemidji State basketball team will face Winona State University. The game is scheduled for January 11, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. and will take place in Winona, Minn.
 
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).