BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University (4-2, 1-1 NSIC) edged Minnesota State University Moorhead (4-2, 1-1 NSIC), 55-53, at BSU Gymnasium, overcoming an 18-6 third-quarter deficit with a strong 17-point final quarter. The home team capitalized on a 15-for-16 performance from the free-throw line to secure the narrow victory.
 
Bemidji State opened the first quarter with efficient shooting, hitting 9 of 15 field goals and converting three 3-pointers. Tieryn Plasch sparked the offense early with a 3-pointer at 9:08, followed by a layup from Kassandra Caron that extended the lead. The home team controlled the paint with 12 points, while their bench contributed seven crucial points.
 
Defensively, Bemidji State limited the Dragons to just 3 of 14 shooting, including 1 of 6 from beyond the arc. The team also secured eight defensive rebounds, preventing second-chance opportunities for the visitors. A late 3-pointer by Brooklyn Wood widened the lead to 21-9, closing the quarter with a solid advantage.
 
Bemidji State opened the second quarter with defensive intensity, recording two blocks by Aubrey Heyer and Wood. This defensive effort set the tone early, though scoring was limited on both sides. Ashlynne Guenther's turnover at 8:14 didn't shift the game's momentum significantly as Bemidji State maintained its composure.
 
The team capitalized on key offensive opportunities with Plasch and Heyer each hitting crucial 3-pointers, extending their lead. This offensive push was bolstered by assists from Heyer and Wood, showcasing effective ball movement. Despite MSU Moorhead's attempts to close the gap, Bemidji State maintained a steady lead, finishing the quarter with a 32-21 advantage.
 
Bemidji State began the third quarter with a slight lead, but MSUM quickly shifted momentum. Caron scored an early layup at 8:50, maintaining a slim advantage. However, turnovers became a challenge for Bemidji State, leading to multiple scoring opportunities for the Dragons.
 
MSUM capitalized on these turnovers, scoring 10 points off turnovers and dominating the paint with 14 points. Despite Bemidji State's attempts to hold the lead, including successful free throws by Kendra Syverson and Sam Veto, MSUM closed the quarter on a strong note.
 
MSUM's Ashton Safranski assisted a critical layup by Terryn Johnson with just 14 seconds remaining, giving the visitors a narrow lead. Bemidji State ended the quarter trailing 39-38 after an 18-6 run by MSUM.
 
Bemidji State began the fourth quarter with a defensive stand, marked by Caron's block and subsequent defensive rebound by Heyer. Guenther's layup shortly after gave Bemidji State a brief lead. Despite a turnover, Bemidji State responded with Caron's layup and free throws, maintaining close competition.
 
As the quarter progressed, Bemidji State found themselves trailing, but Syverson's successful free throws tied the game at 51. With less than a minute remaining, Bemidji State called a timeout, which led to a decisive layup by Caron, putting them ahead 55-53. MSUM's final attempt to regain the lead fell short, and Bemidji State secured the victory with a final score of 55-53.
 
Caron led the team with 14 points, converting 6 of 13 field goal attempts. Plasch contributed 11 points while hitting three 3-pointers and recording two steals. Syverson was perfect from the free-throw line, making 8 of 8 attempts. Heyer added 5 points and collected six rebounds, including five defensive boards.
 
Bemidji State currently holds a 4-2 overall record and stands at 1-1 in NSIC play. The Dragons are also 4-2 overall with a 1-1 record in the NSIC. In their next game, Bemidji State will head to Crookston, Minnesota, to face the University of Minnesota Crookston on Saturday, Dec. 6. The matchup is set for 3 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).