WAYNE, Neb. – Bemidji State University Women's Basketbal (6-18) fell to Wayne State College (11-14) with a final score of 58-55 on Saturday at Rice Auditorium in Wayne, NE.
 
In the first quarter, the Beavers took an early lead with Tieryn Plasch scoring two free throws to start the game. Erin Barrette and Ashlynne Guenther contributed significantly, each scoring key points in the paint. At the 5:00 mark, Tieryn Plasch hit a 3-pointer, extending BSU's lead. Despite turnovers, Bemidji State maintained their edge through effective shooting, finishing the quarter with a 21-18 lead over Wayne State.
 
Bemidji State took control early in the second quarter with Tieryn Plasch scoring twice from beyond the arc, including a fast-break 3-pointer at 4:12, pushing the score to 27-23. Plasch continued to contribute by sinking a free throw at 2:50 after being fouled by the Wildcats' Maya Fitzpatrick. Alayna Suprenand extended Bemidji State's lead to eight with a 3-pointer at 1:32, assisted by Ella Giorgi. Despite turnovers and missed shots from both teams, Bemidji State ended the quarter ahead 31-27, outscoring the Wildcats 10-9 in the quarter.
 
In the third quarter, BSU maintained a steady lead with key contributions from Ashlynne Guenther and Erin Barrette. Guenther opened the scoring with a layup at the start of the quarter and added a crucial steal later on. Aubrey Heyer added momentum with five consecutive points, including a 3-pointer at 9:26. Barrette was consistent under the basket, securing rebounds and scoring with a layup and a tip-in, contributing to the team's overall 17 points for the quarter. Wayne State narrowed the gap with Maya Fitzpatrick's 3-pointer at 5:15, but Bemidji State's defensive plays and efficient scoring ensured their advantage remained intact.
 
In the fourth quarter, the Beavers initially held a lead with Tieryn Plasch scoring a layup, bringing the score to 50-44. However, the Wildcats responded with a series of free throws and layups, tying the game 50-50 at one point. Despite Beth Bolte's successful 3-pointer and another layup by Plasch, the Wildcats capitalized on free throw opportunities and closed out the quarter with a 19-7 scoring run, finishing ahead 58-55.
 
Tieryn Plasch led the Beavers with 19 points, connecting on six of nine baskets and four of seven from beyond the arc. Erin Barrette made a notable defensive contribution with three steals in the game. Ashlynne Guenther scored nine points, making four of seven shots, including one 3-pointer, while adding three rebounds. Ella Giorgi was a strong presence on the boards, securing nine rebounds, with one block and one steal.
 
Bemidji State holds an overall record of six wins and 18 losses, with a conference record of four wins and 16 losses in the NSIC. WSC has an overall record of 11 wins and 14 losses, and its conference record stands at eight wins and 13 losses in the NSIC.
 
Up next for Bemidji State is a home matchup against Concordia University, St. Paul on February 21 at 7:30 p.m. for Pink Out Night. They'll then celebrate the team's seniors prior to Saturday's game against the University of Minnesota Duluth.
 
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).