BISMARCK, N.D. — Bemidji State University (8-14, 5-13 NSIC) fell to the University of Mary (20-7, 13-5 NSIC), 85-54, at McDowell Activity Center, with Mary securing a 45-31 advantage in rebounds. Despite scoring 34 points in the paint, the Beavers were unable to overcome a 31-point deficit.
The first quarter commenced with Bemidji State finding their rhythm, keeping the game close through strategic plays and defensive rebounds.
Beth Bolte contributed significantly with four points in the paint, and
Tieryn Plasch connected on a 3-pointer to close within two points at 2:31. Despite these efforts, the Marauders maintained a slight edge, capitalizing on both perimeter and inside scoring opportunities. The quarter concluded with the Beavers trailing by six, with a score of 19-13 in favor of the Marauders.
In the second quarter, Bemidji State struggled to maintain momentum against Mary. Despite opening with a quick jumper from
Ashlynne Guenther at 8:29, the Beavers faced challenges with turnovers and missed opportunities. However,
Evyn Eppinga provided a spark with a couple of crucial layups, contributing to the team's 16 points in the quarter. Mary capitalized on turnovers, extending their lead with efficient shooting, including a fast-break 3-pointer by Brenna Dick at 6:05. The home team maintained pressure, adding nine points off turnovers and finishing the quarter strong. The score stood at 44–29 in favor of Mary at the close of the first half.
Bemidji State began the third quarter with a strong offensive effort, highlighted by Eppinga's layup following an offensive rebound. Despite the Beavers' efforts, Mary continued to score effectively in the paint, widening their advantage early in the quarter.
Gabrielle Fineday contributed significantly with two 3-pointers, including one on a fast break, keeping Bemidji State competitive. The team also capitalized on turnovers, with Guenther converting a steal into a three-point play. In the closing minutes, the Beavers managed to cut into the deficit with Eppinga's free throws, but Mary's consistent scoring kept the lead intact. The quarter concluded with Mary leading 67-48.
Bemidji State began the fourth quarter facing a significant deficit. The team struggled offensively, converting just three field goals and missing all eight 3-point attempts. Despite difficulties, Plasch managed to score a key jumper at 7:25 to break a scoring drought. Defensively, the Beavers faced challenges containing Mary's inside game, as they allowed eight points in the paint. Although Bemidji State secured six rebounds, they couldn't capitalize on second-chance opportunities. Mary's free-throw efficiency widened the gap further. The quarter concluded with Bemidji State trailing 85-54.
Eppinga led the team with 10 points, adding three assists. Guenther contributed nine points, making four of five field goal attempts.
Kendra Syverson posted three steals and tallied four points. Bolte recorded six rebounds while scoring eight points.
Mary improved to 20-7 overall and 13-5 in NSIC play. The Beavers moved to 8-14 overall and 5-13 in NSIC competition. Looking ahead, Bemidji State will face Northern State University on Thursday, Feb. 12. The game is set to tip off at 5:30 p.m. at the Sanford Center 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).
