ST. CLOUD, Minn. — Bemidji State University (7-8, 4-7 NSIC) fell to St. Cloud State University (6-10, 3-8 NSIC), 77-56, at Halenbeck Hall, with a strong second quarter from the Huskies proving decisive. The Beavers recorded 23 points from their bench, but St. Cloud St. dominated the paint with 44 points.
 
The first quarter began with Bemidji State establishing defensive pressure, highlighted by Kassandra Caron's early block and steal. The team capitalized on turnovers and tied the game with a 3-pointer from Evyn Eppinga. The Beavers controlled the pace with three blocks and two steals, frustrating St. Cloud State's attempts in the paint.
 
Bemidji State's offensive efforts were bolstered by three successful 3-pointers, including one each from Tieryn Plasch and Gabrielle Fineday, which helped them maintain a narrow lead. The quarter concluded with Lindsey Weiler converting two free throws to secure an 11–9 advantage for Bemidji State at the end of the quarter.
 
Bemidji State started the second quarter with a significant defensive play, as Caron blocked a shot early. Despite this initial momentum, the Beavers faced challenges maintaining possession, committing 10 turnovers during the quarter. The Huskies capitalized on these errors, extending their advantage with efficient scoring, including a critical three-pointer midway through the quarter.
 
Bemidji State struggled to find offensive rhythm, managing only four field goals. However, the team showed resilience, closing the quarter with a pair of layups, including a jumper by Weiler at the buzzer. Despite these efforts, the quarter ended with Bemidji State trailing 39-21.
 
The Beavers began the third quarter with a tenacious defensive effort, highlighted by Plasch's steal and subsequent assist to Caron for a three-pointer at 9:29. This initiated a strong offensive stretch, as Eppinga contributed with a three-pointer and a fast-break layup, cutting into the deficit. Caron continued to be a key player, securing both offensive and defensive rebounds, while also blocking a shot to maintain pressure on the home team.
 
Despite St. Cloud State's ability to score in the paint, Bemidji State's outside shooting was effective, with Fineday and Eppinga sinking crucial three-pointers. Ashlynne Guenther added a mid-range jumper to further bolster the scoring effort. In the closing minutes, Fineday's free throws and Eppinga's three-pointer brought Bemidji State closer. The quarter ended with Bemidji State narrowing the gap, trailing 58-44.
 
In the fourth quarter, the Beavers showed resilience but struggled to close the gap against the Huskies. Fineday initiated momentum with a three-pointer at 7:25, assisted by Eppinga, narrowing the score. Despite this effort, St. Cloud St. maintained their advantage through consistent scoring, including multiple layups from Reagan Briggs.
 
Bemidji St. continued to push, with Plasch adding a crucial three-pointer at 3:23, assisted by Tiffany Liddie, but turnovers hindered further progress. The Huskies capitalized on these opportunities, extending their lead with effective free-throw shooting and points in the paint. The quarter concluded with Bemidji St. trailing, and the final score was 77–56 in favor of St. Cloud St.
 
Fineday led the scoring effort with 13 points, converting 4 of 5 field goals, including 3 of 4 from beyond the arc. Eppinga added 11 points and made 3 successful 3-point shots on five attempts. Plasch contributed with eight points, two steals, and three assists, providing support on both ends of the court. Caron recorded a strong defensive performance with four blocks, along with 10 points and six rebounds.
 
Bemidji State holds a 7-8 overall record and is 4-7 in NSIC competition. The Huskies stand at 6-10 on the season with a 3-8 record in NSIC play. In their next game, the Beavers will travel to face Minnesota State University Mankato on Saturday, Jan. 17. The matchup will take place at 5:30 p.m. in Mankato, Minnesota.
 
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).