ABERDEEN, S.D. – Bemidji State University Women's Basketball (5-17) fell to Northern State University (15-9) with a final score of 77-65 on Saturday in Aberdeen, S.D.
 
The quarter opened with Northern State taking an early lead with a jumper by Madelyn Bragg at 10:00. Bemidji State responded with Tieryn Plasch sinking a 3-pointer, briefly taking the lead at 9:15. Erin Barrette's free throw at 7:20 and Ella Giorgi's jumper at 4:15 helped BSU stay competitive. Beth Bolte's 3-pointer at 2:15 tied the game at 19-19, but the Wolves closed the quarter leading 23-19, despite a strong defensive effort from Bemidji State, including a steal by Janette Hanni at 0:30.
 
During the second quarter, BSU and NSU each scored 19 points. The Beavers saw a significant contribution from Tieryn Plasch, who made a three-pointer and later assisted Beth Bolte on a layup, bringing the score to 31-42. Erin Barrette and Rachel Koenig also contributed with a three-pointer and an impactful layup at the end of the quarter, respectively, closing the gap to 38-42.
 
In the third quarter, Bemidji St. faced a strong performance from the Wolves, who managed to outscore them 21-11. Ashlynne Guenther assisted Rachel Koenig on a layup at the 9:00 mark, bringing Bemidji St. closer to Northern State with a score of 40-46. Later, at 3:00, Sage Ganyo made a notable impact with a successful 3-pointer, assisted by Ashlynne Guenther, narrowing the gap to 47-56. Despite efforts from players like Ella Giorgi and Tieryn Plasch, Bemidji St. struggled with turnovers and fouls, which contributed to Northern State's lead extending throughout the quarter.
 
In the fourth quarter, Bemidji State outscored Northern State 16-14. Erin Barrette contributed significantly with a layup at 8:30 and a 3-pointer at 5:20. Alayna Suprenand and Janette Hanni each added 3-pointers, with Hanni's scoring at 1:10, showcasing effective perimeter shooting. Despite four turnovers and four fouls by Bemidji State, the team maintained composure with Ella Giorgi assisting Suprenand on a crucial 3-pointer.
 
Tieryn Plasch led Bemidji State with 14 points, making 6 of 13 shots, including 2 from three-point range, and adding 4 assists and 4 rebounds. Ella Giorgi contributed 13 points, hitting 6 of 11 field goals and recording 3 assists. Erin Barrette stood out with 4 steals in her game appearance, alongside scoring 9 points on 3 of 6 shooting.
 
Bemidji State has an overall record of five wins and 17 losses, with a conference record of three wins and 15 losses in the NSIC. The Wolves hold an overall record of 15 wins and nine losses, with a conference record of 12 wins and six losses in the NSIC.
 
Up next for Bemidji State is a matchup against Augustana University on February 14, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. in Sioux Falls, S.D.
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).