SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - In a hard-fought conference matchup, the Sioux Falls Cougars fell to visiting Northern State 81-70 on Saturday evening at the Stewart Center. Despite holding a lead through three quarters, the Cougars couldn't withstand a fourth-quarter surge from the Wolves. The loss moves Sioux Falls to 10-9 overall and 6-6 in NSIC competition. 

1st Quarter:  

Neither team could gain significant separation in an evenly-matched opening period. Alexis Rose provided early offensive firepower, draining a three-pointer among her eight first-quarter points. Though the Cougars struggled from the field at 28.6%, they stayed competitive by converting 6-of-7 free throws. Northern State established their interior presence with 10 points in the paint, taking a 17-16 edge into the second quarter. 

2nd Quarter: 

The Cougars found their offensive rhythm in the second, outscoring the Wolves 21-17. Aby Phipps sparked the turnaround with seven points, including a triple that gave the Cougars a 3-point lead. Anna Vaaler caught fire from deep, connecting on two three-pointers that helped Sioux Falls build a 37-34 halftime advantage. The Cougars' improved execution led to 47.1% shooting in the frame. 

3rd Quarter:  

Sioux Falls maintained their slim lead through a tightly-contested third period. Vaaler led the charge with five points while making her presence felt at the free throw line. However, ball security became an issue as five turnovers allowed Northern State to keep pace. Both teams put up 16 points in the quarter, leaving the Cougars ahead 53-51 heading to the fourth. 

4th Quarter:  

Northern State seized control in the final frame, overwhelming Sioux Falls with a 30-17 scoring advantage. The Wolves shot a blistering 70% from the field and converted 15-of-18 free throws down the stretch. Northern State's efficient offense and second-chance opportunities proved decisive in the 11-point victory. 

Key Team Stats 

• Shooting Efficiency: Posted a 40.4% mark from the field (23-57) and 33.3% from three (6-18). 

• Rebounding Battle: Grabbed 35 rebounds total with 8 coming on the offensive glass. 

• Free Throws: Strong 78.3% showing from the line on 18-of-23 attempts. 

• Turnovers: Limited to 12 turnovers but gave up 9 points off those miscues. 

• Points in the Paint: Established inside presence with 28 points in the paint. 

Key Coo 

• Alexis Rose: Paced all Cougars with 17 points, connecting on two three-pointers and seven free throws while directing the offense. 

• Aby Phipps: Delivered a complete performance with 13 points, 11 rebounds and four assists for a double-double. 

• Kami Wadsworth: Contributed 15 points and six rebounds while going 5-for-5 from the charity stripe. 

• Anna Vaaler: Added 13 points including two three-pointers, along with four rebounds. 

Up Next 

The Cougars are hitting the road for their next few games. They start next weekend with a Friday game at 7:30 PM at Halenbeck Hall against the St. Cloud State Huskies. On Saturday, they'll face the Bemidji State Beavers at 5:30 PM in BSU Gymnasium. 

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