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ABERDEEN, S.D. (USF) — The Sioux Falls Cougars staged a remarkable second-half comeback, erasing a 10-point halftime deficit to defeat Northern State 77-66 Saturday in Wachs Arena.
Creighton Morisch etched his name in the record books, breaking Teathloch Pal’s program mark of 279 rebounds in a season during the NCAA Division II era while contributing 17 points, nine rebounds, and four assists.
The Cougars’ transformation after halftime was highlighted by a game-changing 14-0 run that flipped the contest, as they limited the Wolves to just 22 second-half points while finding their offensive rhythm.
1st Half:
Northern State controlled the opening 20 minutes behind efficient offensive execution, shooting a blistering 53.1% (17-of-32) from the field. The Wolves dominated inside, generating high-percentage looks and capitalizing on second chances.
The Cougars struggled to find their range, connecting on just 4-of-15 attempts from beyond the arc. Despite contributions from Morisch and Kyle Ingwerson, plus valuable interior production from Shawn Warrior, Sioux Falls couldn’t prevent Northern from taking a 44-34 advantage into the locker room.
2nd Half:
USF emerged from halftime with renewed defensive intensity and determination on the glass. Their suffocating defense held NSU to just 8-of-24 shooting (33.3%) while creating critical turnovers that fueled their comeback.
The game’s pivotal sequence came midway through the half when the Cougars unleashed a devastating 14-0 scoring run over four minutes. Morisch highlighted the surge by securing the record-breaking rebound on the defensive end before converting a go-ahead layup on the ensuing possession.
Ingwersen delivered clutch three-pointers while Ashley and Warrior spearheaded the defensive effort, helping Sioux Falls dominate the final period 43-22. The Cougars built an 11-point cushion in the closing minutes and sealed the victory at the free-throw line.
Key Team Statistics
Dominant Second Half: USF outscored NSU 43-22 after halftime, locking down defensively while shooting nearly 50% from the field to erase a 10-point deficit and take control late.
Shooting Turnaround: After hitting just 37.5% in the first half, the Cougars found their rhythm in the second, improving to 48.3%, thanks to better ball movement and high-percentage looks inside.
Battle of the Boards: USF outrebounded NSU 42-34, controlling the glass in the second half with key defensive rebounds and crucial second-chance opportunities.
Ball Security: The Cougars committed just 11 turnovers while forcing 14, turning NSU’s mistakes into 14 points and maintaining composure down the stretch.
Transition Advantage: USF’s defense led to quick offense, as they outscored NSU 8-0 in fast-break points, capitalizing on a few steals.
Key Coo
Creighton Morisch: Led the way with 17 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks, while breaking the program’s D2-era single-season rebounding record.
Kyle Ingwerson: Scored 16 points with 6 rebounds, hitting four three-pointers to spark the second-half comeback.
Shawn Warrior: Provided 13 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 steals, delivering key interior plays on both ends.
Taylen Ashley: Controlled the pace with 12 points, 4 assists, and 3 steals, knocking down timely shots and pushing the tempo.
Noah Puetz: Added 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists, steadying the offense with efficient playmaking and decision-making.
Up Next
The Cougars will finish up the regular season tomorrow, Feb 22nd when they take on the University of Mary Marauders at 3:30pm in the McDowell Activity Center.
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