WAYNE, Neb. — Bemidji State University Women's Basketball (8-12, 5-11 NSIC) fell to Wayne State College (10-12, 5-11 NSIC), 61-50, at Rice Auditorium, with 14 points scored off turnovers in the contest. Despite their 14 steals, the Beavers were unable to overcome the Wildcats' 34 points in the paint.
 
Bemidji State started the first quarter with defensive pressure, highlighted by Tieryn Plasch's early steal at 9:50. The Beavers capitalized on the Wildcats' turnovers, keeping the score tied at 2–2 after Aubrey Heyer's successful free throws at 7:35. Kassandra Caron's layup at 6:53 helped the Beavers regain momentum, resulting in a narrow lead after Plasch's 3-pointer at 6:00.
 
However, the Wildcats responded with a run, drawing on their inside scoring to extend their lead. Despite a strong defensive effort, the Beavers faced challenges with turnovers, which contributed to a scoring gap. Kendra Syverson's jumper at 1:14 narrowed the deficit, yet the Beavers trailed 19–11 at the close of the first quarter.
 
In the second quarter, Syverson opened with a steal, setting the tone for the Beavers' defensive efforts, as the team recorded four steals during the period. Despite the defensive plays, turnovers were frequent, with the Beavers committing seven, which allowed the Wildcats to maintain control.
 
Offensively, Bemidji State struggled, shooting 4-for-14 from the field and missing all seven attempts from beyond the arc. Gabrielle Fineday and Caron contributed with layups to keep the visiting team in the game. However, the Wildcats capitalized on second-chance opportunities and bench scoring, extending their lead. The quarter ended with the Beavers trailing 36-20.
 
Bemidji State initiated the third quarter with a quick 3-pointer by Plasch, assisted by Caron, setting the tone for the team's offensive efforts. Despite giving up points in the paint to Wayne State, the Beavers capitalized on free throws, converting seven out of ten attempts. Plasch contributed significantly with two steals and a block, keeping the defense active against the Wildcats' pressure.
 
Midway through the quarter, Beth Bolte's defensive rebound led to a successful layup, narrowing the score margin. The Beavers maintained pressure with a fast-paced play style, highlighted by strategic assists and defensive stops, including another 3-pointer from Plasch. The quarter concluded with the Beavers outscoring the Wildcats 17-13, trimming the deficit to 49-37.
 
The Beavers began the fourth quarter by narrowing the gap with a quick series of plays, highlighted by Sam Veto's 3-pointer at 9:07, bringing the score to 41–51. The visiting team increased defensive pressure, forcing turnovers, including a steal by Bolte at 8:03. Syverson added another 3-pointer at 7:50, further reducing the deficit.
 
Wayne State responded with a layup from Kelsey Willems at 2:33 and a three-point play by Kylah vanDonkersgoed at 1:39, extending their lead. Despite Evyn Eppinga's efforts, contributing a 3-pointer and securing defensive rebounds, the Beavers couldn't close the gap entirely. The quarter concluded with the Beavers trailing 50–61.
 
Plasch led the team with 14 points, converting 3 of 8 from beyond the arc, and added eight rebounds, including two blocks and five steals. Syverson contributed seven points and three steals while securing two rebounds. Bolte recorded six rebounds and three steals, complementing her three points with three assists. Caron scored seven points and collected five rebounds, adding two steals to her performance.
 
The Beavers are now 8-12 overall and 5-11 in NSIC competition. Wayne State holds a 10-12 overall record with a conference record of 5-11 in the NSIC. Looking ahead, Bemidji State will travel to face Minot State University on Thursday, Feb. 5. The game will tip off at 5:30 p.m. in Minot, North 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).