BEMIDJI, MINN. - The Sioux Falls Cougars (11-9, 7-7 NSIC) fell to the Bemidji State Beavers (7-13, 4-10 NSIC) with a final score of 76-68. The Coo struggled to contain the Beavers in the second half. Taylen Ashley led Sioux Falls with 18 points. 

1st Half  

The game began as a defensive battle for both teams, with neither side able to establish a significant lead. Sioux Falls and Bemidji State exchanged leads 8 times and were tied 5 times throughout the half. Taylen Ashley and Creighton Morisch led the way for Sioux Falls with 9 points each in the half, with Kenji Scales providing a spark off the bench, contributing 7 points. Sioux Falls took advantage of fast break opportunities, scoring 8 points in transition. The Cougars' defense was also effective, forcing 7 turnovers and converting them into 7 points. By halftime, Sioux Falls held a narrow 34-31 lead, shooting 37.5% from the field compared to Bemidji State's 36.7%. 

2nd Half 

In the second half, Bemidji State's efficiency proved too much for Sioux Falls to handle. The Beavers extended their lead to as much as 13 points, thanks to strong performances and a balanced attack. Sioux Falls found better success from beyond the arc, hitting 6 three-pointers, but it wasn't enough to overcome Bemidji State's offensive prowess. The Cougars struggled to keep up with the Beavers' 53.6% shooting from the field in the second half. Despite a late comeback attempt, Sioux Falls fell short, being outscored 45-34 in the second half. The Cougars' shooting percentage dropped to 28.9%, and they were unable to capitalize on several key possessions down the stretch. 

Key Team Stats 

• Field Goal Percentage: Sioux Falls shot 32.9% (23-70) while Bemidji State shot 44.8% (26-58). Bemidji State's higher shooting percentage was a key factor in their victory. 

• Three-Point Success: Sioux Falls hit 29.0% (9-31) of their three-pointers compared to Bemidji State's 43.5% (10-23). Despite improving their three-point shooting in the second half, Sioux Falls couldn't match Bemidji State's consistency. 

• Free Throws: Both teams were efficient from the free-throw line, with Sioux Falls making 76.5% (13-17). 

• Fast Break Points: Sioux Falls excelled in transition, scoring 24 fast break points compared to Bemidji State's 4. 

Key Coo 

• Taylen Ashley: Led the team with 18 points and added three rebounds and two assists.  

• Kenji Scales: Contributed 16 points, including 4 three-pointers, providing a crucial spark off the bench. 

• Creighton Morisch: Recorded a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, dominating the paint and providing a strong inside presence.  

Up Next 

The Cougars have an exciting weekend ahead, starting with an away game at Wayne State on Thursday at 5:30 PM. They will then return home to face #23 Southwest Minnesota State on Saturday at 3:30 PM in the Stewart Center. 

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