Weekend Matchup Preview 

The University of Sioux Falls Men's Basketball team embarks on a critical NSIC weekend, facing two strong opponents on the road. The Cougars first take on (RV) Winona State on Friday, December 13, at 7:30 PM. The Warriors have established themselves as a powerhouse this season, boasting a 7-2 record. On Saturday, December 14, at 7:30 PM, USF faces last season's National Champions, Minnesota State, a team currently riding a five-game win streak and known for its defensive prowess. These matchups will test the Cougars' ability to compete against high-caliber teams as they look to build on their momentum following a thrilling upset of #11 Minnesota Duluth. 

Scouting Winona State 

The Cougars face off against (RV) Winona State (7-2, 2-1 NSIC) on Friday, December 13, at 7:30 PM. The Warriors bring an impressive offensive game, averaging 79.4 points per contest (3rd in the NSIC) and shooting a league-second-best 50.2% from the field. They also rank fourth in rebounding margin (+6.0), making them a formidable opponent on both ends of the court. Defensively, they hold opponents to a stingy 29.2% shooting from three-point range (3rd in the NSIC).

Key Players to Watch 

• Luke Haertle (19.4 PPG, 4.4 RPG): The sophomore guard is the engine of the Warriors' offense. His ability to score from all levels, including 38.7% shooting from deep, makes him a difficult player to defend. Haertle also contributes as a playmaker with 3.0 assists per game.
• Isaiah Thompson (11.8 PPG, 8.3 RPG): As the team's top rebounder, Thompson anchors Winona State's interior game. His physicality and efficiency in the paint (67.2% FG) are critical to the team's success. 
• Jhei-R Jones (12.8 PPG, 3.8 RPG): A versatile guard, Jones adds defensive grit with 1.9 steals per game. His ability to create turnovers and push the tempo will be a challenge for the Cougars. 
• Tyler Mason (9.4 PPG, 2.8 RPG): The freshman guard has been a key contributor, showcasing his scoring ability with a 43.2% three-point shooting mark. 

Team Insights 

Winona State is a well-rounded team, excelling at both ends of the floor. They boast the NSIC's top free-throw shooting percentage (76.9%), underscoring their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. With six players averaging nine or more points per game, the Warriors' balanced attack makes them a tough team to contain. Their rebounding strength and ability to limit opponent three-point efficiency add another layer of challenge for their opposition. 

Head-to-Head History 

Sioux Falls holds a narrow 12-11 edge in the all-time series against Winona State. The Warriors swept both matchups against USF last season, with an 81-66 victory in Winona, before their 68-61 win on February 2nd, in the Stewart Center. The Cougars will look to reverse that and build on their recent 6-4 advantage in the last ten meetings. 

Scouting Minnesota State  

The Cougars cap their weekend against Minnesota State (6-4, 2-0 NSIC) on Saturday, December 14, at 7:30 PM. The Mavericks are on a five-game win streak and feature a high-pressure defense, holding opponents to 28.9% from three-point range (2nd in the NSIC). Their balanced offensive attack and depth make them a challenging matchup.

Key Players to Watch 

• Kyreese Willingham (15.9 PPG, 5.3 RPG): The senior guard is the Mavericks' leading scorer, known for his ability to attack the basket and stretch the floor. Willingham also leads the team defensively with 1.6 blocks per game.
• Justin Eagins (11.3 PPG, 3.6 APG): A three-point specialist, Eagins averages 2.8 three-pointers per game, shooting 35.5% from deep. His ability to facilitate and score makes him a dual threat. 
• Caden Kirkman (10.9 PPG, 6.4 RPG): Kirkman provides stability in the frontcourt with his efficient 55% shooting and rebounding presence. He is instrumental in controlling the paint. 
• Will Opsahl (9.0 PPG, 4.9 RPG): A reliable perimeter threat, Opsahl's 48.8% three-point shooting leads the team and gives the Mavericks a consistent scoring option from deep. 

Team Insights 

Minnesota State's ability to stretch defenses with their three-point shooting is a hallmark of their offense, averaging 8.9 made threes per game. They are disciplined with the ball, boasting an assist-to-turnover ratio of 1.34 (3rd in the NSIC). Defensively, they excel at limiting opponents' shooting efficiency, ranking in the top five in field goal defense. Their depth allows them to maintain high energy and pressure throughout games, forcing opponents into mistakes.

Head-to-Head History 

Minnesota State leads the all-time series 25-9. The Cougars went up against the Mavericks three times last season, falling in each match. The Mavericks won the last encounter, 78-64, during the NSIC Tournament's second round. The Cougars will aim to close the gap and secure a key conference victory. 

Cougars at a Glance 

Sioux Falls enters the weekend at 6-3 overall (2-1 NSIC). The Cougars' success is driven by their dominance on the boards, as they rank second in the league in rebounding average (40.1 RPG) and first in offensive rebounds (12.9 RPG). 

Key Players to Watch 

• Noah Puetz (12.7 PPG, 3.9 RPG): The senior guard leads the team in scoring with efficiency, shooting 48.3% from the field and 75% from the free-throw line. 
• Shawn Warrior (11.6 PPG, 6.2 RPG): A versatile player who contributes on both ends, Warrior is a reliable rebounder and scorer. His defensive versatility makes him a key player against strong offensive teams. 
• Creighton Morisch (9.1 PPG, 8.0 RPG): The senior center anchors the paint, leading the team in rebounds and adding a strong defensive presence. Morisch's ability to protect the rim and facilitate second-chance points will be crucial. 
• Taylen Ashley (10.8 PPG, 3.1 RPG): The freshman guard has shown flashes of brilliance with his sharpshooting (43.2% from three) and ability to score in bunches. 

Team Insights 

USF's rebounding margin of +8.6 is second in the NSIC, underscoring their physicality and effort on the glass. However, turnovers (15.9 per game, last in the NSIC) have been a weakness, often giving opponents extra scoring opportunities. The Cougars must address this issue to maximize their chances against two disciplined teams. Coming off a thrilling 71-68 upset over #11 Minnesota Duluth, USF will aim to carry their momentum into this weekend's matchups. 

Keys to Victory for the Cougars

1. Control the Boards: Winning the rebounding battle against Winona State's Isaiah Thompson and Minnesota State's Caden Kirkman will be critical.
2. Limit Turnovers: Reducing mistakes and maintaining possession will be vital against two opportunistic defenses. 
3. Three-Point Defense: Containing sharpshooters like Luke Haertle and Justin Eagins will prevent opponents from gaining momentum. 
4. Balanced Scoring: Contributions from the entire roster will keep defenses guessing. 
5. Capitalize on Free Throws: Improving on their 67% free-throw shooting will be crucial in close games. 

Fan Information

• Stream: Watch live on the NSIC Network.
• Live Stats: Follow the action with real-time stats here Friday and here.
• Radio: Tune in to KWSN 98.1 FM / 1230 AM with Tom Fredrick on the call
• Social Media: Stay updated on @USFCougarsMBB via Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

For all things USF Men's Basketball, be sure to download the USF Cougars app as well as follow along on Instagram and Twitter!