CASTINE – Kair Simpson had a huge night, scoring a game-high 41 points to power the University of Maine at Farmington to an 81-64 victory over Lasell College in women’s basketball action and earn a spot in the NAC semifinals.

The game opened with a flurry, both teams traded baskets on their way to an 11-11 tie before Simpson stole the ball and executed a layup at the other end. The Beavers (23-4) then exploded for a 14-3 run, powered by Simpson who tallied 22 first half points.

The Lazers (14-12) tried to hang on in the second half, but the Beavers opened the frame with a 12-5 run and controlled the tempo. Theresa Allen got Lasell to within eight points of the lead, but the Beavers pulled away down the stretch. Allen recorded a double-double with 22 points and 10 boards.

Melissa Sawyer added 13 points, and Karen Sirois had six steals to go with her eight points for the Beavers. Simpson was 5-of-7 from beyond the arc.