BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University Women's Basketball (8-10, 5-9 NSIC) defeated Winona State University (12-8, 9-5 NSIC), 72-65, at home, securing the victory with a strong third-quarter performance that included 13 three-pointers overall.
 
Bemidji State opened the first quarter with an effective use of the three-point shot, as Gabrielle Fineday connected on two early attempts. The home team leveraged Kassandra Caron's defensive efforts, recording a block and a steal to maintain control. The Beavers' defense held strong, limiting Winona State's scoring opportunities while forcing four turnovers. The quarter concluded with Bemidji State maintaining a narrow lead. Despite Winona State's late three-pointer by Sadie Jarmolowicz, a layup from Tieryn Plasch helped the Beavers finish the quarter ahead 13–12.
 
Bemidji State began the second quarter by capitalizing on turnovers, matching the Warriors' early scoring efforts to keep the game tied. Evyn Eppinga's free throws and subsequent three-pointer shifted the lead back to the Beavers, countering Winona State's brief advantage. Mid-quarter, Lindsey Weiler's layup and Eppinga's three-pointer extended the Beavers' margin, supported by defensive rebounds that curtailed the Warriors' attempts. As the quarter progressed, the Beavers maintained control with Kassandra Caron's contributions in the paint and on the boards. Despite a late push from Winona State, the Beavers closed the quarter effectively, with Caron securing two free throws and a final block by Lindsey Weiler on a three-point attempt. The quarter ended with Bemidji State leading 30-26.
 
Bemidji State opened the third quarter with a strong offensive presence, highlighted by a key three-pointer from Aubrey Heyer at 8:25, extending their lead. The team maintained their momentum with efficient ball movement, as demonstrated by Tieryn Plasch's back-to-back three-pointers, contributing to the Beavers' scoring. Despite the Warriors' efforts in the paint, the Beavers countered effectively from beyond the arc, with Evyn Eppinga adding crucial three-pointers at 4:07 and 3:29. The quarter remained closely contested, with both teams scoring 26 points. The Beavers closed the quarter maintaining a slight edge, ending with a score of 56-52.
 
Bemidji State began the fourth quarter trading baskets with Winona State, maintaining a narrow lead through the early minutes. A key defensive block by Aubrey Heyer at 8:20 helped to slow the visitors' momentum, allowing the Beavers to regain the lead shortly after with a jumper from Heyer, assisted by Gabrielle Fineday. As the quarter progressed, the Beavers capitalized on free-throw opportunities, with Aubrey Heyer and Kassandra Caron both adding crucial points from the line. Evyn Eppinga's defensive rebound at 1:49, followed by her layup and free throw at 0:31, extended the Beavers' cushion. In the closing minutes, the Beavers maintained control, converting free throws and securing defensive rebounds. The team finished strong, winning the quarter 16-13, and securing a 72-65 victory.
 
Evyn Eppinga scored 23 points, sinking five 3-pointers and pulling down eight rebounds. Kassandra Caron contributed 13 points, making seven of eight free throws and tallying two steals. Tieryn Plasch added 14 points, including four 3-pointers, while Gabrielle Fineday scored nine points with three successful shots from beyond the arc. Aubrey Heyer blocked two shots and added seven points to the score sheet.
 
Bemidji St. holds a record of 8-10 overall and 5-9 in NSIC competition. Winona St. stands at 12-8 overall and 9-5 in NSIC play. Looking ahead, Bemidji State will travel to face Augustana University on Friday, Jan. 30. The game is set for 5:30 p.m. in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
 
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).