SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - The Sioux Falls Cougars (8-7, 4-5 NSIC) orchestrated a stunning upset over the previously undefeated #4 Minot State Beavers (17-1, 8-1 NSIC), dominating their way to an 85-61 victory at the Stewart Center. The dynamic duo of Taylen Ashley and Noah Puetz combined for 47 points while the Cougars' suffocating defense stifled the Beavers throughout the contest. 

1st Half  

The Cougars immediately established their presence when Noah Puetz drilled a three-pointer following the opening tip, energizing the home crowd. Shawn Warrior followed with a strong drive to the basket, and Taylen Ashley added a smooth corner jumper. Creighton Morisch's all-around play - distributing, protecting the rim, and cleaning the glass - helped USF build a quick 14-6 advantage. 

Though Minot State mounted a 7-0 run midway through the half, the Cougars maintained their composure. Warrior's tenacious effort led to a crucial offensive rebound and putback that halted the Beavers' momentum. The Cougars' defensive intensity forced Minot into difficult shots and disrupted their interior game. 

USF's balanced attack continued to flourish as the half progressed. Morisch's versatile play complemented Puetz's sharp shooting, including another three from the wing that extended the lead to 29-24. Ashley's aggressive drives drew multiple fouls, helping the Cougars weather a late Beaver push and enter halftime leading 36-31. 

2nd Half 

The Cougars emerged from the break with renewed intensity, transforming the game into a statement victory. A decisive 13-0 run, sparked by Puetz's offensive rebound and three-point play, broke the game open. Warrior dominated the paint with multiple baskets, and Ashley punctuated the surge with an explosive finish at the rim, pushing USF ahead 62-45. 

Defensive excellence defined the second half for Sioux Falls. The Cougars completely neutralized Minot's perimeter attack, holding them without a three-pointer on 11 attempts. Warrior and Morisch anchored the interior defense, challenging shots and disrupting the Beavers' offensive rhythm. 

USF's offensive execution remained sharp as they controlled the tempo. Ashley continued his aggressive play, earning trips to the free-throw line, while Puetz showcased his scoring arsenal with another triple and a crafty floater. 

Minot's frustration mounted against USF's relentless defense. The Cougars dominated the boards (41-28) and converted Beaver turnovers into transition opportunities. The bench sealed the victory with steady play in the closing minutes as Sioux Falls outscored Minot 49-30 in the decisive second half.  

Key Team Stats 

• Field Goal Percentage: USF shot an efficient 45.7% from the floor, while Minot managed just 33.3%. 

• Three-Point Defense: Sioux Falls held Minot to 20% shooting from beyond the arc (4-of-20). 

• Points in the Paint: The Cougars overpowered the Beavers 48-24 inside the lane. 

• Rebounding Battle: USF dominated the glass with a 41-28 advantage, including 13 offensive rebounds. 

• Second-Half Surge: The Cougars erupted for 49 points in the second half while holding Minot to just 30. 

Key Coo 

• Taylen Ashley: Exploded for 23 points on 8-of-16 shooting, adding 5 rebounds, 3 assists. 

• Noah Puetz: Led all scorers with 24 points, hitting 3-of-8 from deep, while contributing 5 rebounds. 

• Shawn Warrior: Delivered a double-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 steals. 

• Creighton Morisch: Contributed 10 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists. 

Up Next 

The Cougars will stay on their home court for tomorrow night's game, facing off against the MSU-Moorhead Dragons at 5:30 PM in the Stewart Center. 

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