The University of Sioux Falls men's basketball team (5-2, 1-0 NSIC) is ready for an exciting weekend of NSIC play at the Stewart Center. With a perfect 3-0 record at home this season, the Cougars are looking to extend their win streak and defend their home court against two competitive opponents.

Friday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 PM – Concordia-St. Paul Golden Bears (5-2, 0-1 NSIC)

USF opens the weekend against the high-scoring Golden Bears, who lead the NSIC in offense but have struggled defensively. CSP relies heavily on Antwan Kimmons, the league's top scorer, and presents a fast-paced, high-scoring challenge for the Cougars.

Saturday, Dec. 7 at 5:30 PM – #11 Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs (5-1, 0-0 NSIC)

USF closes the weekend against a tough nationally ranked UMD squad. The Bulldogs bring the NSIC's best defense and efficient offense into the Stewart Center, making this a clash of styles as the Cougars aim to hand UMD their first road loss of the season.

Scouting Concordia-St. Paul

The Golden Bears' high-octane offense averages 87.0 PPG (1st NSIC) but is offset by a league-worst 81.3 PPG allowed. CSP plays a fast-paced game with efficient shooting but struggles with defensive consistency and rebounding margin.
Key Players to Watch

• Antwan Kimmons (Sr., G): The NSIC scoring leader (27.6 PPG) is a versatile guard who can score at all levels. Kimmons is shooting 59.5% from the field and leads CSP in assists (5.1 APG) and rebounds (6.7 RPG). He's also dangerous at the free-throw line, averaging 16.6 attempts per game.
• Marcus Skeete (Sr., G/F): Skeete contributes 14.3 PPG and 8.7 RPG (3rd NSIC). He's a solid all-around player who leads the team in steals (1.6 SPG) and is capable of big performances on both ends of the court.

Team Insights

• Offense: 87.0 PPG (1st NSIC), shooting 48.2% FG (5th NSIC).
• Defense: 81.3 PPG allowed (16th NSIC).
• Rebounding: 41.0 RPG (2nd NSIC), but just a +1.7 margin.
• Turnovers: 10.6 per game (2nd NSIC).

Head-to-Head History
USF holds a commanding 22-5 advantage in the all-time series and has won 13 of the last 14 matchups. Last season, the Cougars swept CSP with wins of 85-59 and 76-67.

Scouting Minnesota Duluth

The Bulldogs combine elite defense and efficient offense to dominate opponents. They hold teams to just 61.0 PPG (1st NSIC) and boast a +16.8 scoring margin, also best in the league. UMD is a disciplined team that capitalizes on turnovers and limits second-chance opportunities.
Key Players to Watch

• Charlie Katona (5th Yr., F): Katona leads UMD in scoring (14.5 PPG, 11th NSIC) and rebounding (8.3 RPG, 5th NSIC). A versatile forward, he's efficient inside, shooting 54.1% from the field.
• Caleb Siwek (R-So., G): Siwek averages 12.3 PPG and leads the NSIC in free-throw percentage (95.2%). His three-point shooting (42.9%) adds another dimension to UMD's offense.

Team Insights

• Offense: 77.8 PPG (4th NSIC), shooting 48.8% FG (4th NSIC).
• Defense: 61.0 PPG allowed (1st NSIC), with opponents shooting just 27.0% from three (1st NSIC).
• Rebounding Margin: +4.8 (6th NSIC).
• Turnover Margin: +3.0 (2nd NSIC).

Head-to-Head History
UMD leads the series 8-6 and has won the last five meetings. USF's most recent victory was a 73-66 win in 2018.

Cougars at a Glance

USF (5-2, 1-0 NSIC) enters the weekend with momentum, led by their defense and rebounding dominance. The Cougars rank 2nd in the NSIC in rebounding margin (+10.9) and limit opponents to just 40.8% shooting.
Key Players to Watch

• Noah Puetz (R-Sr., G/F): Puetz leads USF in scoring (15.0 PPG) and is a consistent offensive presence, shooting 50% from the field. He also averages 4.9 RPG and 3.4 APG.
• Shawn Warrior (Sr., G): A two-way force, Warrior is a strong rebounder (6.4 RPG) and second in scoring (12.9 PPG). He has also been impactful defensively with 9 steals and 9 blocks.
• Creighton Morisch (Sr., C): Morisch controls the glass with 8.2 RPG (6th NSIC) and adds 9.8 PPG, providing a strong interior presence.

Team Insights

• Offense: 79.1 PPG (4th NSIC) while shooting 38% from three (3rd NSIC)
• Defense: 72.4 PPG allowed (9th NSIC), holding teams to 40.8% from the floor (4th NSIC)
• Rebounding Margin: +10.9 (1st NSIC) while pounding the offensive glass for 13.4 o-rebounds/game (1^st NSIC)

Keys to Victory for the Cougars

1. Contain Antwan Kimmons: Against CSP, slowing down the NSIC's leading scorer will be critical to disrupting their high-powered offense.
2. Defensive Discipline vs. UMD: The Bulldogs thrive on low-percentage shots and turnovers. USF must stay disciplined and match their defensive intensity.
3. Control the Glass: USF's rebounding strength could be a decisive factor in both matchups. Winning second-chance opportunities will give the Cougars an edge.

Fan Information

• Tickets: Buy Here
• Stream: NSIC Network
• Live Stats: Follow Here
• Radio: KWSN 98.1 FM/1230 AM
• Follow: @USFCougarsMBB on Social Media

Don't miss the action as the Cougars defend their home court against two challenging NSIC opponents this weekend!