Bemidji Rallies, LaZella Scores 31 in Close Win Over Little Falls

Bemidji High School defeated Little Falls 72, 68 in a Friday night meeting at the Lumberjack gymnasium, paced by a 31 point performance from junior forward Karley LaZella. Anysia Pink added 23 points to support the win, while other contributors included Bieber with 7, L. Thompson with 4, M. Thompson with 3, Daman with 2 and Sherwood with 1 for Bemidji.

The game was competitive throughout, with Bemidji maintaining a narrow lead late in the fourth quarter and holding off a push from Little Falls to secure the final margin. LaZella supplied the offensive spark in key possessions and Pink provided scoring depth, giving the Lumberjacks multiple threats that Little Falls could not consistently contain.

For local families and fans, the result matters beyond the scoreboard. Friday nights at the high school gym serve as a gathering point across Beltrami County, offering social connection during the long winter months and support for young people balancing academics and athletics. High school sports also contribute to physical health, mental wellbeing and civic pride for small communities, while revealing broader issues around access and equity.

Athletic programs require investment in safe facilities, trained staff and transportation to ensure students can participate and compete without undue risk. Access to athletic trainers, clear concussion protocols and mental health resources supports both performance and long term health. In a county with varied resources across districts, equitable funding and policy decisions by school boards and local leaders will shape whether athletics remain an engine of opportunity for all students.

Stat box, Bemidji scorers, points: LaZella 31, Pink 23, Bieber 7, L. Thompson 4, M. Thompson 3, Daman 2, Sherwood 1. Final score, Bemidji 72, Little Falls 68.

As the season continues, the Lumberjacks will look to build on Friday night and the community will continue to rally behind student athletes. Continued attention to health and safety, and to fair allocation of resources across schools, will determine how widely those opportunities are available in Beltrami County.