BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University defeated North Central University 93-67 on Tuesday in the season-opening exhibition matchup in Bemidji. As this game is an exhibition, it does not count towards season statistics or records. 
 
Bemidji State started strong in the first quarter, quickly establishing momentum with a steal by Kassandra Caron that led to an opening layup. The team maintained their advantage with effective defensive plays, including blocks by Ashlynne Guenther and Lindsey Weiler. They extended their lead to 18-10 with crucial contributions from the bench, notably a 3-pointer by Gabrielle Fineday.
 
As the quarter progressed, North Central rallied to tie the game, capitalizing on free throw opportunities and a late layup by Keiley Mahseet. The quarter concluded with both teams locked at 21-21, as Bemidji State's early lead was offset by the Rams' consistent scoring efforts.
 
The Beavers began the second quarter facing a deficit but quickly responded with a 3-pointer from Tieryn Plasch at 7:23, narrowing North Central's lead to nine. Kendra Syverson followed with another three, further closing the gap. Bemidji State showed resilience with strong contributions from Aubrey Heyer, who assisted two key plays, and Evyn Eppinga, who sank a crucial 3-pointer, bringing the score within two at 36-34.
 
As the quarter progressed, Bemidji State continued to challenge North Central with consistent defensive rebounds and timely steals. Despite the Rams' efforts to pull ahead with a 3-pointer from Keiley Mahseet, the Beavers remained competitive. Tiffany Liddie and Plasch each scored in the final minute, keeping the game within reach. The quarter concluded with Bemidji State trailing 50-46, maintaining a close contest heading into the next quarter.
 
Bemidji State opened the third quarter with a significant momentum shift, sparked by back-to-back three-pointers from Tieryn Plasch and Aubrey Heyer, which brought the score level at 52-52. Guenther's defensive rebound and subsequent assist to Heyer further fueled the team's offensive push.
 
The home team then executed a decisive 11-0 run, highlighted by Caron's contributions at the free-throw line and fast-break layup, extending their lead to 62-52. The Beavers maintained their dominance through effective defensive stops and additional scoring from Liddie and Heyer, closing the quarter ahead 69-56.
 
Bemidji State began the fourth quarter with a significant surge, highlighted by Weiler's layup and a subsequent defensive block. The team capitalized on this momentum as Fineday and Eppinga contributed crucial points, extending the lead.
 
Midway through the quarter, Bemidji State continued to control the game with efficient shooting, including back-to-back 3-pointers from Fineday, pushing the scoreboard further in their favor. Despite the Rams' attempts to close the gap, the Beavers' defense held strong, preventing significant scoring runs from the visitors.
 
In the closing minutes, Sam Veto's efforts added to Bemidji State's lead with a 3-pointer and a fast-break layup, sealing a decisive advantage. Bemidji State concluded the quarter with a dominant 24-11 score, finalizing a commanding performance.
 
Tieryn Plasch led the scoring effort with 12 points, including four three-pointers, and contributed six rebounds. Caron added 13 points, converting five of six from the free-throw line, while collecting six rebounds. Guenther tallied seven points, two blocks, and two steals to bolster the defense. Fineday chipped in with 11 points, highlighted by three successful three-point shots.
 
In their next game, Bemidji State will host Augsburg University for another exhibition matchup on Saturday, Nov. 8, at 2 p.m. at the BSU Gymnasium. The game will be available for listening on the Beaver Radio Network. 
 
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).