CROOKSTON, Minn. — Bemidji State University (5-2, 2-1 NSIC) defeated the University of Minnesota Crookston (1-7, 0-3 NSIC), 86-76, with a strong performance from beyond the arc, hitting 12 three-pointers. Despite trailing after the first quarter, the Beavers secured the win with a 10-0 overtime run.
 
Bemidji State opened the game with an early advantage as Kassandra Caron scored a layup, quickly followed by a 3-pointer from Ashlynne Guenther, assisted by Aubrey Heyer, to take a 5-2 lead. Tieryn Plasch added another 3-pointer, extending the lead to 8-2. The Beavers maintained control by converting free throws, with Caron sinking all four attempts from the line.
 
Despite the Beavers' strong start, the Golden Eagles staged a comeback. Riley Jenkins and Anna Westby contributed key baskets to reduce the deficit, and a late 3-pointer by Hope Dudycha gave the Golden Eagles a 15-12 lead. The quarter concluded with a layup in the final seconds by Westby, leaving the Beavers trailing 17-12 at the end of the first quarter.
 
Bemidji State established control in the second quarter with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by a barrage of three-pointers. Brooklyn Wood was instrumental, hitting three from beyond the arc to help the Beavers surge ahead. A key momentum shift came with a 7–0 run, capped by a Gabrielle Fineday three-pointer at 3:16, pushing the lead to 30–26.
 
Defensively, the Beavers limited the Golden Eagles to just three field goals in the quarter, with Beth Bolte contributing a crucial block. Aubrey Heyer secured a late three-pointer with 0:04 remaining, closing out the quarter on a high note. The Beavers led 41–30 at the end of the second quarter.
 
Bemidji State opened the third quarter with a strong performance in the paint, with Caron scoring early at 9:46 to extend their lead. Despite the Golden Eagles' attempts to close the gap, the Beavers maintained their advantage by scoring crucial free throws and capitalizing on turnovers.
 
As the quarter progressed, the Beavers' defensive efforts, including a block by Caron at 5:35, helped limit the Golden Eagles' scoring opportunities. The Beavers' successful free throw shooting in the closing minutes, including a pair by Plasch at 0:11, ensured they kept their lead intact. The quarter concluded with the Beavers leading 62-54.
 
Bemidji State started the fourth quarter by extending their lead with a three-pointer from Fineday, assisted by Heyer, at 9:34. Despite a strong start, the Golden Eagles responded with a series of successful field goals, including a layup by Tayden Hanks, narrowing the gap.
 
Evyn Eppinga contributed significantly with a series of layups, maintaining a slight edge for the Beavers. However, the Golden Eagles' Emma Miller brought the score close with a key three-pointer at 2:45.
 
As the game neared its conclusion, Caron kept the Beavers in contention by making two crucial free throws at the 7-second mark, tying the game at 76. The quarter ended with the score level, and Eppinga securing the final defensive rebound, ensuring a draw at 76-76.
 
Bemidji State began the overtime quarter with a strong showing, as Heyer connected on a 3-pointer at 4:43, assisted by Eppinga. The visitors maintained momentum with Caron's successful free throws, extending the lead to 82–76. Defensive contributions were significant, with Guenther's steal at 2:56 further stifling the Golden Eagles' efforts.
 
As the quarter progressed, the Beavers' defensive efforts were complemented by efficient scoring. Eppinga's layup increased their advantage to 84–76. The quarter concluded with a layup by Caron at 0:38, sealing the quarter's score at 86–76. The Beavers' defense held the Golden Eagles scoreless throughout the quarter, securing a commanding close to the game.
 
Eppinga scored 19 points and collected seven rebounds, showcasing an effective performance. Caron tallied 23 points, converting 15 of 18 free throws to lead the scoring efforts. Wood made three 3-pointers, finishing with nine points. Heyer contributed 10 points and recorded two blocks, adding defensive strength.
 
Bemidji State improved to 5-2 overall and 2-1 in NSIC play with their victory. The Golden Eagles are now 1-7 overall and 0-3 in NSIC competition. In their next game, Bemidji State will travel to face the University of Jamestown on Thursday, Dec. 11. The matchup is set for 7:30 p.m. in Jamestown. 
 
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).