BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University (6-4, 3-3 NSIC) fell to the University of Mary (11-3, 5-1 NSIC), 93-77, at BSU Gymnasium, with the Marauders outscoring the Beavers by 11 points in the third quarter. The Beavers recorded 11 steals and converted 19 points off turnovers.
 
Bemidji State initiated play with assertive defense, forcing five turnovers and converting them into points. Kassandra Caron set the pace early with a layup and a 3-pointer, contributing to a 10–4 lead in points in the paint. Despite the early advantage, the quarter saw several lead changes. Evyn Eppinga's consistent presence in the paint, including multiple layups and a successful free throw, kept the team competitive. However, the Marauders closed the quarter with a late jumper by Allison Undlin, moving ahead 21–19 at the end of the first quarter.
 
In the second quarter, Bemidji State's Ashlynne Guenther contributed significantly, beginning with two free throws at 9:32, followed by a 3-pointer that narrowed the gap to 31–26. Momentum continued as Eppinga added a layup at 5:51, further closing the score to 38–35. Despite strong efforts, the Marauders extended their lead, capitalizing on the Beavers' turnovers and fast breaks. 
 
The Beavers' defensive efforts included two steals, but Mary's efficient shooting and free throws maintained their advantage. The quarter concluded with a layup by Tieryn Plasch with 10 seconds remaining, leaving the Beavers trailing 48–41.
 
Bemidji State opened the third quarter seeking to narrow the gap, but Mary quickly extended their lead with an early layup and a 3-pointer. Plasch connected on a jumper to keep the score within reach. Caron contributed by blocking a shot and adding a layup, followed by two successful free throws, momentarily reducing the deficit. Midway through the quarter, the Beavers gained momentum with a 3-pointer from Plasch, facilitated by an assist from Eppinga. However, Mary's efficient shooting, including multiple 3-pointers, countered the efforts. The Beavers' defense forced turnovers, but struggles with field goal accuracy limited further scoring opportunities. As the quarter closed, Caron added another layup and a free throw, but Mary maintained their advantage with consistent scoring. The quarter concluded with the Beavers trailing, 73–55, as they prepared for the final push.
 
Bemidji State began the fourth quarter with a 3-pointer from Gabrielle Fineday, narrowing the margin early. Caron contributed offensively, adding points from the free-throw line and setting up a 3-pointer by MaCee Linow. The Beavers capitalized on defensive plays, with Plasch and Caron each recording a steal. Despite the efforts, Bemidji State faced a persistent challenge as Mary responded with consistent scoring, maintaining their lead. Beth Bolte connected on two 3-pointers, assisted by Plasch and Aubrey Heyer, to keep the Beavers competitive in the quarter. The team also made crucial free throws to close the gap slightly. As the quarter progressed, the Beavers continued to fight, with Eppinga adding two free throws late in the quarter. The home team outscored their opponents 22-20 in the fourth quarter, but the game concluded with Mary securing a 93-77 victory.
 
Eppinga led the team with 16 points, converting six free throws and recording three steals. Caron scored 18 points, making six field goals and adding two steals. Plasch posted 10 points while contributing four assists and two steals. Bolte added nine points, hitting three 3-pointers in her performance.
 
The Marauders hold an 11-3 overall record and a 5-1 mark in NSIC play. The Beavers stand at 6-4 overall with a 3-3 record in NSIC competition. In their next matchup, Bemidji State will host Minot State University on Saturday, Dec. 20. The game is set to tip off at 3:30 p.m. at BSU Gymnasium in Bemidji.
 
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).