Cougars Catch Fire from Deep, Close Regular Season with 82-75 Win Over UMary
Sioux Falls started strong offensively, shooting 42.4% from the field and knocking down eight three-pointers in the opening period. Ingwerson was in rhythm early, connecting on three of his six three-point attempts before halftime. Kenji Scales provided a strong offensive showing, giving the Cougars 8 first half points.
UMary kept things close with efficient free-throw shooting, hitting 10-of-10 from the line in the first half, and also hitting 8 three's to match the Cougars.
USF took control in the second half with a 10-2 scoring run, fueled by Ingwerson's shooting and Morisch's dominance inside. The Cougars shot 43.3% from the field and 41.7% from three after halftime, keeping UMary from mounting a comeback.
Late in the game, Taylen Ashley hit a clutch three pointer that gave the Cougars a 3-point lead that they would hold onto. The Cougars' defense tightened up in the second half, limiting UMary to just 30.8% shooting from three.
Balanced Offense: USF shot 42.9% (27-of-63) from the field and 43.3% (13-of-30) from three.
Ball Movement: USF finished with 18 assists on 27 made field goals.
Free Throw Success: The Cougars converted 15-of-17 (88.2%) at the line, closing out the game efficiently.
Defensive Stops: USF held UMary to 4-of-13 from three (30.8%) in the second half.
Kyle Ingwerson: aught fire from deep, finishing with 23 points on 8-of-15 shooting, including 7-of-13 from three, while adding 6 rebounds.
Creighton Morisch: recorded his 14th double-double of the season with 16 points, 12 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 blocks, anchoring USF inside.
Noah Puetz: contributed 14 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists, providing key playmaking and defensive presence.
With the regular season complete, the Cougars look to the postseason where they'll take on the #8 seed Minot State on the road Wednesday, Feb 26th at 6:00pm.
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