TAMPA, Fla. — Bemidji State University (3-2, 0-1 NSIC) fell to the University of Tampa (4-4, 0-1 Sunshine State), 66-49, after a strong fourth-quarter performance by the tournament hosts. The Beavers converted 10 three-pointers, but the Spartans outscored them 28-8 in the paint.
 
The opening quarter saw Bemidji State establish an early rhythm with strategic ball movement, leading to a 6–2 advantage in points off turnovers. Kassandra Caron provided an offensive boost with a three-pointer at the 8:28 mark, assisted by Aubrey Heyer, initiating a sequence that kept the Beavers in control. The team's defensive intensity was evident with three steals contributing to six turnovers by Tampa.
 
A critical stretch came as Bemidji State capitalized on perimeter shooting, highlighted by a three-pointer from Evyn Eppinga at 4:24, extending the lead to 11–8. Beth Bolte added another from beyond the arc with 1:51 left, pushing the lead further. The Beavers closed the quarter maintaining a narrow lead, 17–14, over the Spartans, showcasing strong defensive rebounding and efficient shot selection.
 
Bemidji State began the second quarter by trading early baskets with the Spartans, highlighted by Caron's jumper in the paint at 9:27. The team faced defensive pressure, leading to turnovers but responded with a critical steal by Caron at 6:50, maintaining momentum.
 
As the quarter progressed, the Beavers narrowed the gap with a three-pointer from Caron at 3:51 and a layup by Ashlynne Guenther at 1:44. Eppinga's three-pointer at 1:05 tied the game at 27, showcasing strong perimeter shooting.
 
The quarter concluded with a tightly contested exchange, as Sam Veto's free throw at 0:10 leveled the score before the Spartans edged ahead with a last-second layup, ending the quarter with the Beavers trailing 30–28.
 
In the third quarter, the Beavers started strong with Tieryn Plasch's layup assisted by Caron, tying the score at 30–30. Eppinga then hit a fastbreak 3-pointer, assisted by Plasch, to briefly take the lead. Despite this, the Spartans responded with a 3-pointer from Amy Thompson and held a narrow advantage thereafter.
 
Bemidji State continued to fight back, with Eppinga and Caron contributing significant scores to keep the game within reach. However, the Spartans maintained their slight edge through consistent scoring and capitalized on the Beavers' turnovers. The quarter concluded with both teams adding 12 points to their totals, keeping the score tight at 40–42 in favor of Tampa.
 
The Beavers faced a challenging fourth quarter as the Spartans established control early with a series of successful possessions. Despite Bemidji State's efforts, including six free throws and a late three-pointer by Gabrielle Fineday assisted by Brooklyn Wood, Tampa's offense proved difficult to counter.
 
Tampa capitalized on their opportunities, particularly in the paint, and extended their lead with four three-pointers and solid bench contributions. The Beavers' attempts to close the gap were hampered by missed field goals and turnovers. The quarter concluded with Tampa maintaining a commanding lead, closing the period at 66–49.
 
Eppinga scored 12 points, converting 4 of 8 from beyond the arc. Caron led the team with 13 points, hitting 5 of 8 field goals and collecting four rebounds. Plasch added seven points, recorded six rebounds, and tallied two steals.
 
Bemidji State holds a record of 2-2 overall and 0-1 in NSIC play. Tampa is currently 4-4 overall, with a 0-1 record in the Sunshine State Conference. The next challenge for the Beavers is a home game against Minnesota State University Moorhead on Thursday, Dec. 4. The game will tip off at 7:30 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).