ST. CLOUD, Minn. – Bemidji State University Women's Basketball edged out St. Cloud State University, 59-58, on Tuesday at Halenbeck Hall in St. Cloud, MN.
 
Bemidji State opened the first quarter with strong defensive play, blocking five shots from St. Cloud, including multiple efforts by Rachel Koenig. Koenig also contributed offensively by scoring two free throws at 7:45, helping the team take an early lead. Tieryn Plasch was instrumental in offense, hitting two 3-pointers and assisting on several plays, contributing to their narrow 18-17 lead at the end of the quarter. In fact, Plasch recorded a career-high eight assists, showcasing her exceptional playmaking skills. Erin Barrette added key points with two layups, while Ashlynne Guenther and Ella Giorgi provided support with timely baskets and assists.
 
In the second quarter, the Beavers took control with a series of effective plays and defensive stops. Ashlynne Guenther scored a jumper at the 8:45 mark, putting them ahead, and Erin Barrette followed with a layup shortly after to extend the lead. Rachel Koenig contributed by making two free throws with 5:41 remaining, further increasing the scoring margin. Aubrey Heyer added two more free throws at 3:02, and Sage Ganyo capped off the quarter with a successful free throw to secure a 12-7 scoring advantage. The team's defense forced eight turnovers from their opponent, maintaining a steady lead throughout the quarter.
 
In the third quarter, the Beavers scored 17 points to the Huskies' 16. Ashlynne Guenther contributed significantly with a layup at 1:15, pushing the visitor's lead to 47-35. Rachel Koenig was effective from the free-throw line, adding four points in the final minutes, helping maintain the lead despite the Huskies' late efforts.
 
In the fourth quarter, Bemidji State scored 12 points while their opponent added 18 to their tally. Key plays included Ashlynne Guenther's layup at 9:13, followed by a successful free throw, and Tieryn Plasch's 3-pointer at 7:00, assisted by Rachel Koenig. Koenig contributed significantly with multiple layups at crucial moments, including one at 3:22, assisted by Guenther. Despite these efforts, the Huskies' scoring consistency, including a 3-pointer by Jada Eggebrecht with 1:10 remaining, helped them secure the quarter.
 
Erin Barrette made a significant defensive contribution with four steals in her game. Ashlynne Guenther was a versatile performer with 13 points, two blocks, and two steals, while also grabbing five rebounds. Tieryn Plasch led the scoring with 15 points and was efficient from beyond the arc, making three of her seven 3-point attempts. She also contributed eight assists, indicating her playmaking ability. Rachel Koenig was a force inside, scoring 19 points and making nine of ten free throws, in addition to recording four blocks. Aubrey Heyer was notable for her defensive presence, securing nine rebounds and adding two blocks and three steals.
 
The Beavers have an overall record of five wins and 14 losses, with a conference record of three wins and 12 losses in the NSIC. The Huskies hold an even overall record of 10 wins and 10 losses, with a conference record of seven wins and eight losses in the NSIC.
 
Bemidji State's team will face the University of Mary at the BSU Gymnasium Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Fans are encouraged to wear their best beach or vacation wear for the chance to win a FREE 43-inch television from Midco.
 
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).