WAYNE, NEB. – A stifling defensive performance in the fourth quarter lifted Sioux Falls (13-9, 9-6 NSIC) to a 54-39 victory over Wayne State (9-10, 6-9 NSIC) on Thursday night at Rice Auditorium. The Cougars didn't allow a single field goal in the final 10 minutes, closing out the game with dominant defense and clutch free-throw shooting. 

1st Quarter:  

Both teams started slow offensively, but Sioux Falls found its rhythm midway through the quarter behind Kami Wadsworth's early scoring. Wadsworth knocked down a three-pointer and added a pair of layups to put the Cougars ahead. Defensively, USF limited Wayne State to just 3-of-14 shooting, forcing tough shots inside and contesting perimeter attempts. At the end of the first, Sioux Falls led 12-8. 

2nd Quarter: 

Sioux Falls continued to control the tempo, outscoring Wayne State 14-11 in the second frame. Anna Vaaler and Megan Fannin gave the Cougars a spark with their three-pointers. Sioux Falls' defense remained tough, holding Wayne State to just 36.4% shooting in the quarter. By halftime, the Cougars carried a 26-19 advantage. 

3rd Quarter:  

Wayne State fought back in the third quarter, matching Sioux Falls with 11 points in a physical, defensive battle. The Cougars leaned on production from Dani Minsaas, who picked up a pair of steals and collected 4 points. Despite a scoring lull, Sioux Falls stayed ahead 37-30 entering the final period. 

4th Quarter:  

The Cougars' defense took over in the final 10 minutes, shutting down Wayne State's offense completely. Sioux Falls did not allow a single field goal in the fourth quarter, holding the Wildcats to 0-of-13 shooting. Meanwhile, the Cougars took advantage of their trips to the free-throw line, making 11-of-12 attempts (91.7%) to put the game away. 

Key Team Stats 

• Lockdown Defense: Held Wayne State to 20.4% shooting (10-of-49) and 12.5% from three (3-of-24). 

• Fourth-Quarter Dominance: Allowed zero made field goals in the final 10 minutes. 

• Free Throw Efficiency: Shot 81.8% (18-of-22) from the line, including 11-of-12 in the fourth quarter. 

• Rebounding Edge: Out-rebounded Wayne State 39-36, with Phipps leading the way. 

Key Coo 

• Kami Wadsworth: Led all scorers with 17 points on 8-of-15 shooting, adding seven rebounds and two assists. 

• Aby Phipps: Recorded 11 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks in a strong all-around effort. 

• Anna Vaaler: Scored nine points, grabbed six rebounds, and blocked two shots. 

• Dani Minsaas: Provided five points, six rebounds, four steals, and three assists off the bench. 

Up Next 

The Cougars will venture back home Saturday, where they'll take on the #22 Southwest Minnesota State Mustangs at 5:30pm in the Stewart Center.  

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