23-02-2025
Cougars Catch Fire from Deep, Close Regular Season with 82-75 Win Over UMary
BISMARCK, N.D. (USF) – The Sioux Falls Cougars (16-12, 12-10 NSIC) finished the regular season on a high note, defeating UMary (5-26, 3-19) 82-75 on the road. Kyle Ingwerson led all scorers with 23 points, hitting seven three-pointers, while Creighton Morisch added 16 points and 12 rebounds to help USF secure its fourth straight win. The Cougars will now turn their attention to the NSIC Tournament, with their opening-round matchup set for Wednesday against Minot State at 6:00pm in Minot, N.D.
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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