BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University women's basketball defeated Augsburg University, 92-56, at the BSU Gymnasium, fueled by 15 made three-pointers. This game served as an exhibition match and thus does not count towards season statistics or records.
 
Bemidji State opened the first quarter assertively, capitalizing on an early technical foul by Augsburg to score the first point from the free-throw line. Kassandra Caron contributed significantly by adding a layup shortly after, setting the tone for the home team. The team's defense was robust, forcing multiple turnovers and limiting Augsburg's scoring opportunities. Offensively, the Beavers maintained momentum with successful field goals and three-pointers. Gabrielle Fineday was instrumental, delivering both a three-pointer and an assist to help them extend their lead. Despite a turnover in the final seconds, the home team finished the quarter strong, leading 17–6.
 
Bemidji State surged ahead in the second quarter with a strong offensive push, doubling Augsburg's scoring. Brooklyn Wood and Caron powered the effort, with Wood sinking a crucial 3-pointer and Caron dominating on the boards. The balanced attack was supported by Tieryn Plasch's timely 3-pointers, while the defense forced six turnovers, maintaining pressure on Augsburg. The home team capitalized on second-chance points and free throws, extending their lead significantly as the quarter progressed. As the clock wound down, Evyn Eppinga added to the lead with two free throws. Despite a late jumper by Augsburg's Leilani Fonoti, the Beavers ended the quarter firmly ahead, leading 50-22.
 
Bemidji State capitalized on their strong shooting from beyond the arc in the third quarter, knocking down four 3-pointers. Caron and Plasch each made key contributions, with Plasch also adding crucial assists. The home team's defense was effective, securing 12 rebounds and limiting Augsburg's second-chance opportunities. Despite some turnovers, the Beavers maintained their composure and extended their lead by the end of the quarter. The period closed with Bemidji State ahead, 69-34, after holding Augsburg to 12 points while scoring 19 themselves.
 
Bemidji State opened the fourth quarter with a strong offensive showing, highlighted by Eppinga's three-pointer just seconds into the period, assisted by MaCee Linow. Beth Bolte followed up with another three-pointer, extending the lead. Despite Augsburg's attempts to answer back with free throws and a three-pointer from Sydney Hazuga, the Beavers maintained control. Midway through the period, they continued to excel, with Eppinga sinking another three-pointer and Fineday contributing with a jumper in the paint. The team capitalized on defensive rebounds and fast-break opportunities, including Linow's layup at 4:32. Augsburg struggled to close the gap despite some scoring efforts. As the period closed, Bemidji State kept the pressure on with Wood's three-pointer and Kendra Syverson's layup, both assisted by Linow and Sam Veto, respectively. 
 
The Beavers concluded the game with a decisive 92-56 victory, outscoring Augsburg 23-22 in the fourth quarter. Kassandra Caron led the team with 21 points, shooting 8-for-11 and securing a game-high 12 rebounds, marking the first double-double stat line of the season for BSU. She also added two blocks. Plasch contributed 15 points, connecting on four 3-pointers and dishing out two assists. Eppinga scored 13 points and made two steals, while also converting five of seven free throw attempts. Fineday added 11 points, successfully hitting three out of four 3-point attempts and collecting four rebounds.
 
The Beavers begin regular-season competition next Friday at Valley City State University. The matchup is set for 6 p.m. in Valley City, North Dakota. The Beavers return for a home matchup against University of Minnesota Morris Nov. 17 at 6 p.m.
 
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).