BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University (7-10, 4-9 NSIC) fell to Concordia University, St. Paul (12-6, 8-5 NSIC), 64-42, at BSU Gymnasium. The Golden Bears secured the win with a decisive 25-point second-quarter and a 48-26 rebounding advantage.
 
Bemidji State opened the first quarter with a layup by Aubrey Heyer, setting the tone for a tightly contested start. Kassandra Caron contributed significantly in the paint, scoring twice to keep the Beavers competitive. Despite their efforts, turnovers were a concern, allowing Concordia-St. Paul to exploit those opportunities. Ashlynne Guenther's free throws at the end of the quarter gave the Beavers a brief lead, but the Golden Bears responded with two free throws to edge ahead. The first quarter concluded with Bemidji State trailing by one point, 12-11, after missed opportunities in the final seconds.
 
Bemidji State faced a challenging second quarter as the Golden Bears capitalized on their opportunities in the paint, scoring 14 points from close range. Despite the Beavers' efforts to keep pace with key assists from Evyn Eppinga and Tieryn Plasch's defensive plays, Concordia-St. Paul extended their lead through a series of successful baskets. Bemidji State managed to cut into their deficit with strategic plays, including a three-pointer by Guenther and fastbreak points from Eppinga, but they were unable to contain the Golden Bears' offensive momentum. As the quarter closed, Bemidji State trailed with a score of 37–22, facing a 15-point deficit heading into the next quarter.
 
Bemidji State struggled to find offensive rhythm in the third quarter, as Concordia-St. Paul capitalized with a strong start. Gabrielle Fineday opened scoring for the Beavers with a jumper, but the team faced challenges converting shots, making just 2 of 13 attempts. Concordia-St. Paul extended their lead early with a 3-pointer by Leah Dengerud and maintained momentum with baskets in the paint. Despite the Beavers' efforts, including a 3-pointer by Eppinga assisted by Guenther, the Golden Bears continued to pressure, forcing turnovers and blocking shots. Concordia-St. Paul controlled the boards with a 12-6 rebounding advantage and capitalized on second-chance points. The quarter ended with Concordia-St. Paul ahead, leading 57-28.
 
Bemidji State commenced the fourth quarter by capitalizing on turnovers and converting free throws to narrow the gap. Caron showcased her impact early, connecting on multiple free throws and a layup to keep the team within striking distance. This contributed to the Beavers achieving a season-high 13 free throws made in the game. MaCee Linow added to the momentum with a layup and an and-one play, further cutting into the deficit. The team's defense played a crucial role, blocking two shots and forcing four turnovers, which limited the Golden Bears' scoring opportunities. Bemidji State's effort in the paint resulted in eight points, contributing to a 14–7 advantage in the quarter. Despite the strong performance, the game concluded with the Beavers trailing 64–42.
 
Caron led Bemidji State with 10 points and collected seven rebounds. Beth Bolte contributed defensively with two blocks and added a steal. Plasch made an impact with three rebounds and recorded two steals. Guenther scored eight points and added two rebounds.
 
The Beavers are now 7-10 overall and 4-9 in NSIC play. The Golden Bears move to 12-6 overall and 8-5 in the NSIC. In their next matchup, Bemidji State will host Winona State University on Saturday, Jan. 24. The game is set for a 3:30 p.m. tip-off at BSU Gymnasium in Bemidji, 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).