27-02-2025
USF women dominate Minnesota Crookston
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (USF) – The University of Sioux Falls women's basketball team delivered a commanding postseason performance, defeating Minnesota Crookston 81-69 in the opening round of the NSIC Tournament at the Stewart Center. With the victory, the Cougars (17-13) advance to the NSIC Quarterfinals, where they will face in-state rival Northern State.
Both teams came out firing, trading baskets in a high-scoring opening frame. Minnesota Crookston shot an impressive 62.5% from the field, including 3-of-4 from three, to grab a narrow 23-22 lead after 10 minutes. The Cougars kept pace behind balanced scoring, with Anna Vaaler and Ayla Brown leading the early attack.
Sioux Falls responded with a smothering defensive effort, holding UMC to just 11 points on 33.3% shooting in the second quarter. The Cougars seized control with a 21-11 scoring advantage, fueled by efficient shooting and dominant rebounding. USF entered halftime with a 43-34 lead.
The Cougars broke the game open in the third, outscoring Minnesota Crookston 26-11 behind a blistering 57.1% shooting performance. Megan Fannin caught fire, drilling five threes, while Ayla Brown and Kami Wadsworth controlled the tempo. USF stretched its lead to as many as 26 points before heading into the final quarter up 69-45.
Minnesota Crookston mounted a late rally, outscoring Sioux Falls 24-12 in the final frame, but the deficit proved too substantial to overcome. The Cougars maintained their composure down the stretch, securing the 81-69 victory and punching their ticket to the NSIC Quarterfinals.
Sharp Shooting: USF connected on 45.9% from the field (28-of-61) and 38.5% from three (10-of-26).
Free Throw Precision: The Cougars converted 15-of-18 (83.3%) from the charity stripe.
Balanced Attack: Six different Cougars scored 7+ points, showcasing their impressive depth.
Unselfish Play: USF consistently made the extra pass, resulting in 18 assists and numerous high-percentage shots.
Megan Fannin: Led USF with 21 points, knocking down 6-of-9 from three to ignite the offense while also collecting 6 rebounds.
Kami Wadsworth: Delivered 17 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists, creating problems for defenders at all levels.
Ayla Brown: Stuffed the stat sheet with 14 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds, orchestrating the team's offensive flow.
Alexis Rose: Contributed 11 points and 7 rebounds, anchoring the defensive effort.
Brecli Honner: Provided a crucial spark off the bench with 7 points on efficient 3-of-4 shooting.
With the win, the Cougars advance to face in-state rival Northern State in the NSIC Tournament Quarterfinals. These two teams will square off on Sunday, March 2nd at 11:00am at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls. For all NSIC WBB Tournament information, head over the 2025 NSIC Women's Basketball Tournament page.
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