VALLEY CITY, N.D. — Bemidji State University defeated the Valley City State University Vikings, 81-68, with a dominant 38 points in the paint.
 
The contest opened with the Beavers showing strong execution inside the paint, securing six points and maintaining pressure on the defensive glass by collecting eight defensive rebounds. Kassandra Caron contributed early with a successful shot in the paint, followed by an assist from Tiffany Liddie, setting the tone for an efficient offensive start.
 
Despite facing a barrage of 3-pointers from the Vikings, including multiple makes by Ellie Braaten, the team stayed within reach, highlighted by Tieryn Plasch's fast-break score. The team ended the quarter with a critical 3-pointer from Gabby Fineday, closing the gap to two points. The quarter concluded with the visiting team trailing slightly, 19-17.
 
The second quarter saw a strong performance from the Beavers, highlighted by Caron's scoring efficiency and defensive contributions. Caron scored multiple baskets, including a pair of free throws, to help the team gain momentum. Aubrey Heyer's defensive rebounds and assists facilitated Bemidji State's offensive rhythm, contributing to a scoring advantage in the paint. Despite turnovers, they capitalized on key possessions to extend their lead.
 
BSU's defense was instrumental in limiting the Vikings' scoring opportunities, forcing turnovers and securing defensive rebounds. Although Valley City managed to convert several free throws, the Beavers maintained a lead throughout the quarter. The period closed with BSU leading 38-34, reflecting their effective execution on both ends.
 
Bemidji State opened the third quarter with a strong presence in the paint, adding 12 points from close range. Caron contributed early to the scoring, while Evyn Eppinga added crucial baskets, helping BSU maintain momentum. The defensive effort was notable as they limited Valley City's opportunities, allowing eight points in the paint.
 
Bemidji State capitalized on turnovers, converting them into five points, and the bench added 16 points, underscoring the team's depth. Despite Valley City's efforts to stay close with consistent free throw shooting, the Beavers held a narrow lead. The quarter concluded with BSU leading 50-45, maintaining a slight edge heading into the final stretch.
 
BSU initiated the fourth quarter by maintaining a strong offensive presence, highlighted by Ashlynne Guenther's basket in the paint to extend their lead. The Beavers' defense was effective, as evidenced by Eppinga's defensive rebound which sparked a scoring run. Heyer contributed a crucial 3-pointer, assisted by Caron, solidifying BSU's lead mid-quarter.
 
BSU continued to dominate in the paint, with Caron and Sam Veto each adding key baskets. The team capitalized on Valley City's turnovers, converting them into points and maintaining momentum. In the closing minutes, Bemidji State's consistent free throw shooting from Heyer and Caron iced the game at the line. The quarter concluded with the Beavers outscoring Valley City 20-13, securing an 81-68 win.
 
Caron led the team with 25 points, converting 10 of 17 shots and adding five of six free throws. Eppinga contributed 12 points while securing six rebounds and distributing three assists. Veto recorded 10 points, including a 3-pointer, and tallied two steals. Heyer added six points and dominated the boards with nine rebounds, including four on the offensive end.
 
Bemidji State holds an overall record of 0-0 as of now. The Vikings are 3-0 on the season. In their next game, the Beavers will host the University of Minnesota Morris on Monday, Nov. 17 at 6 p.m. at BSU Gymnasium in Bemidji, Minnesota. 
 
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).