BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University Women's Basketball (2-0) defeated the University of Minnesota Morris (1-5), 85-53, in Bemidji Monday evening, with 18 three-pointers contributing to a decisive victory. The Beavers capitalized on turnovers, scoring 30 points off the Cougars' 22 turnovers.
 
The game began with high energy as Bemidji State took an early lead through Tieryn Plasch's three-pointer, assisted by Aubrey Heyer, at 9:12. The home team capitalized on turnovers, with Evyn Eppinga converting a fastbreak layup following a steal, extending the lead to 5–2. The Beavers maintained momentum with effective defensive efforts, including a block and defensive rebound by Ashlynne Guenther, and added points through free throws and a three-pointer by Heyer at 6:25, assisted by Guenther.
 
Bemidji State continued to assert their presence midway through the quarter, with Lindsey Weiler scoring in the paint and Kassandra Caron adding a fastbreak layup, assisted by Plasch, to keep the team ahead 15–10. The Cougars countered with a few key plays, but Kendra Syverson's three-pointer with just over a minute remaining helped the Beavers maintain a narrow lead. The quarter concluded with Bemidji State leading 18–15, ensuring they held the advantage going into the second quarter.
 
Bemidji State began the second quarter with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by efficient shooting and defensive pressure. Caron initiated the scoring with a layup, propelling the home team to extend their lead. The team then executed a series of successful plays, with Plasch and Eppinga contributing with key assists and baskets, effectively widening the gap.
 
The Beavers maintained momentum throughout the quarter, capitalizing on the Cougars' turnovers and converting them into points. The home team showcased their range by hitting several three-pointers, including efforts from Syverson and MaCee Linow. Bemidji State closed the quarter decisively, leading 52-23, demonstrating control on both ends of the court.
 
Bemidji State opened the third quarter with a defensive stance, highlighted by Caron's block at 7:28 that halted a critical scoring attempt by the Cougars. The home team maintained momentum with strategic plays, including a crucial 3-pointer by Tiffany Liddie at 8:23, which solidified their lead. Heyer contributed significantly with defensive rebounds, keeping the opponent's scoring opportunities limited.
 
Sam Veto extended the lead with a 3-pointer at 3:49, assisted by Beth Bolte, ensuring the Beavers stayed ahead. Despite some turnovers, Bemidji State's defense was strong, with Syverson's steal leading to a fast break layup in the closing seconds. The quarter ended with Bemidji State leading 68–42, maintaining a commanding advantage.
 
Bemidji State capitalized on a strong start to the fourth quarter with Gabrielle Fineday hitting a 3-pointer just 11 seconds in, assisted by Caron. This set the tone as the Beavers maintained offensive pressure throughout. Plasch contributed significantly with another 3-pointer at 8:55, following Fineday's offensive rebound and assist, further extending the home team's lead.
 
The defensive efforts were bolstered by Brooklyn Wood's steal at 7:26, which curtailed a potential scoring opportunity for the Cougars. The Beavers continued their offensive prowess with Eppinga hitting a 3-pointer at 6:54, assisted by Plasch, maintaining their momentum.
 
As the quarter progressed, Bemidji State sustained their lead with crucial plays, including another 3-pointer by Fineday at 5:24 and a late-game layup by Syverson at 0:32. The Beavers closed the quarter with a strong showing, outscoring the Cougars 17–11 in the final frame, and securing the victory with a final score of 85–53.
 
Plasch scored 16 points, including three 3-pointers, and added five assists and three steals. Syverson posted 10 points with two 3-pointers and recorded two steals. Linow tallied 10 points, converting all three of her attempts from beyond the arc. Caron contributed nine points, secured seven rebounds, and registered two steals.
 
The Beavers are now 2-0 overall after their victory against Minnesota Morris. The Cougars fall to 1-5 on the season following the loss. In their next game, Bemidji State will travel to face University of Minnesota Duluth on Tuesday, Nov. 25. The matchup is set for 5:30 p.m. in Duluth, 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).