Cougars Women catch fire, stun No. 21 Minnesota State

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (USF) – The University of Sioux Falls women’s basketball team delivered a dominant performance, knocking off No. 21 Minnesota State 89-76 at the Stewart Center. The Cougars (14-11, 10-8 NSIC) shot lights out from beyond the arc and put together a strong defensive effort to take down the Mavericks (19-5, 15-3 NSIC), handing them just their third conference loss of the season. 

1st Quarter:  

Sioux Falls wasted no time setting the tone, coming out with energy and precision on offense. The Cougars knocked down their first four three-point attempts, spreading the floor and making it difficult for Minnesota State’s defense to keep up. Kami Wadsworth facilitated the offense, finding open teammates for clean looks, while Megan Fannin was a key part of the early perimeter success. 

Defensively, USF worked hard to contain the Mavericks’ fast-paced attack, forcing contested shots and controlling the boards. The Cougars were active in transition, creating efficient scoring opportunities that helped them maintain a lead. Despite Minnesota State’s effort to keep pace, Sioux Falls closed the quarter up 22-20. 

2nd Quarter: 

The second quarter was where Sioux Falls truly took control, delivering their most dominant stretch of the game. The Cougars outscored Minnesota State 24-5, stifling the Mavericks’ offense.  

On the offensive end, the Cougars remained hot from deep, with Fannin and Gracie Traphagen connecting from beyond the arc. The ball movement was crisp, with Dani Minsaas and Ayla Brown facilitating clean offensive possessions. 

The defining moment came at the buzzer, as Sioux Falls capped off their incredible quarter with a deep three-pointer from Wadsworth to take a commanding 46-25 lead into halftime. 

3rd Quarter:  

Minnesota State, as expected, came out determined to fight back in the third quarter. The Mavericks ramped up their defensive pressure, forcing USF into several turnovers and using their transition game to cut into the deficit. Minnesota State’s offense exploded for 29 points in the quarter, attacking the rim and getting to the free-throw line 12 times. 

Despite the Mavericks’ run, Sioux Falls weathered the storm. Fannin and Minsaas stepped up, making key buckets to keep the Cougars in control. Phipps continued her dominance on the boards, pulling down 4 rebounds this quarter. 

Minnesota State managed to trim the lead to 11 points by the end of the quarter, but the Cougars remained in front 65-54 heading into the final period. 

4th Quarter:  

With Minnesota State threatening a comeback, Sioux Falls responded with composure in the fourth quarter. The Cougars executed well at the free-throw line, converting 24-of-30 (80%) attempts for the game, which helped them keep their distance from the Mavericks. 

Wadsworth and Brown made key plays down the stretch, both scoring on crucial possessions to halt Minnesota State’s momentum. Meanwhile, the Cougars’ defense continued to make stops when needed, preventing the Mavericks from ever truly getting within striking distance. 

USF closed out the game with strong rebounding and disciplined play, securing the 89-76 upset victory in one of their most complete performances of the season. 

Key Team Stats 

Sharp Shooting: USF caught fire from beyond the arc, shooting 59.1% (13-of-22) from three. 

Lockdown Defense: The Cougars held Minnesota State to just 5 second-quarter points. 

Rebounding Battle: USF dominated the boards, out-rebounding the Mavericks 39-34. 

Free Throw Success: Sioux Falls capitalized at the line, going 24-of-30 (80%). 

Balanced Scoring: Four Cougars finished in double figures, showcasing a well-rounded offensive attack. 

Key Coo 

Kami Wadsworth orchestrated the offense with 16 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds. 

Alexis Rose delivered a well-rounded performance with 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists.  

Ayla Brown gave the Cougars 16 points while controlling the basketball against the press much of the game.  

Megan Fannin was lethal from beyond the arc, knocking down all 3 threes on her way to 11 points. 

Aby Phipps dominated the glass with a double-double of 12 points while collecting 5 points.  

Up Next 

The Cougars will take on cross-town rival Augustana next week Tuesday, Feb 11th at 7:30pm in the Elmen Center before hosting their final home game of the season Friday, Feb 14th when they take on Minnesota-Crookston at 7:30pm in the Stewart Center. Come out and support our wonderful group of seniors!