ABERDEEN, S.D. — Bemidji State University Women's Basketball (6-3, 3-2 NSIC) fell to Northern State University (6-4, 2-3 NSIC), 62-55, in a closely contested match at Wachs Arena. Despite leading by one point at halftime, the Beavers were outscored 25-14 in the third quarter, which proved decisive.
 
Bemidji State opened the first quarter with strong defensive pressure, forcing four turnovers and securing four steals. Kassandra Caron set the tone early with a layup and a jumper in the paint, helping establish a slight advantage. Despite a few missed opportunities from beyond the arc, the Beavers capitalized on free throws to stay competitive.
 
Northern State responded with a series of plays that included a three-pointer from Taylor Tool and solid bench contributions, keeping the game closely contested. The Beavers finished the quarter with a layup by Evyn Eppinga to narrow the gap, ending the quarter trailing by one, 17-16.
 
Bemidji State began the second quarter by building momentum with a series of successful plays, including a layup by Kendra Syverson, which helped establish an early advantage. Caron contributed significantly with a layup and a free throw, pushing the Beavers ahead 21–17. Despite Northern State's efforts to respond, including tying the score at 21, Bemidji State reclaimed the lead with a 3-pointer by Tieryn Plasch at the 6:06 mark.
 
As the quarter progressed, the Beavers maintained their edge with a combination of defensive rebounds and effective offense. Beth Bolte's layup extended the lead to 28–25. Although Northern State narrowed the gap, Sam Veto's layup in the final minute ensured the Beavers finished the quarter ahead 30–29. The quarter ended with Bemidji State leading by one point, 30–29.
 
Bemidji State began the third quarter with an early layup by Caron, establishing a narrow lead over Northern State. Despite multiple scoring opportunities, the Beavers struggled to maintain momentum due to turnovers and fouls. Caron continued to be a pivotal player, contributing both on offense with layups and defensively with a block.
 
As the quarter progressed, Northern State capitalized on Bemidji State's turnovers, regaining and extending their lead through successful shooting, including two 3-pointers. The Beavers' defensive efforts were countered by Northern State's rebounding and second-chance points. The quarter closed with Bemidji State trailing 54-44, after Northern State outscored them 25-14 in the third.
 
Bemidji State initiated a determined push in the fourth quarter, highlighted by Caron's strong performance. She contributed a key layup at 7:17 and added two free throws at 4:50, narrowing Northern State's lead. Despite the Beavers' tenacity on defense, holding Northern State to just one field goal in the quarter, turnovers and missed opportunities limited further scoring chances.
 
The visitors outscored Northern State 11-8 in the final quarter, showing resilience and composure under pressure. The Beavers' defense, including a block by Veto at 3:43, provided critical stops. However, Northern State maintained their lead, closing the game at 62-55.
 
Caron led the team with 24 points, converting 10 of her 15 field goal attempts. Eppinga contributed 14 points and recorded three steals, showcasing her defensive skills. Ashlynne Guenther added four points and collected four rebounds, providing support on the boards. Tiffany Heyer grabbed five rebounds, solidifying the team's defensive presence.
 
Bemidji State now holds a 6-3 overall record and is 3-2 in NSIC play. Northern State is 6-4 overall with a 2-3 record in conference competition. Looking ahead, the Beavers will host the University of Mary on Thursday, Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m. The game will take place 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).