By: Clint Neumann
BURNSVILLE, Minn. – The University of Sioux Falls Men's Basketball team has its eyes on another step forward in the 2025-26 campaign after being picked eighth overall and sixth in the South Division in the NSIC Preseason Coaches' Poll.
The Cougars finished 16-13 overall and 12-10 in NSIC play last season, good for ninth in the standings. Head Coach Chris Johnson enters his 18th season at the helm and sits just one win away from his 300th career victory, continuing one of the most successful tenures in program history.
Season Outlook
USF will feature a mix of experienced returners and an influx of new talent this season. Johnson believes the group's depth and leadership could allow the Cougars to grow into one of the more balanced teams in the league.
"I am excited about our large group of new guys mixed with our 2-3 returning starters," said Johnson. "We have really good leadership from Taylen Ashley and Kyle Ingwerson for those new players to lean on. We think we have good depth and are excited about the growth this team will have over time."
The South Division is loaded once again, but the Cougars are eager to compete and make their mark in one of the NSIC's toughest stretches of the schedule.
Athlete to Watch: Taylen Ashley | R-So. | G | Sioux Falls, S.D.
After an impressive redshirt freshman season, Taylen Ashley returns as the leader of the Cougar backcourt and one of the most promising young guards in the NSIC.
Ashley started all 29 games last year, averaging 13.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per contest while shooting 41.4% from the field and 37.5% from three. He showcased his ability to score and facilitate, posting a season-high 24 points against Concordia-St. Paul and becoming a steady two-way presence for the Cougars.
"Taylen started every game for us last year as a freshman," said Johnson. "He gained valuable experience and is our leading returning scorer. Taylen is an extremely quick and strong point guard who runs our team very well, but also has the ability to score at a high level. He's one of our main leaders both on and off the floor, and I think he's poised to have a really big year for us."
Ashley will once again play a key role in driving the Cougars' offense as they look to make a run toward the top half of the NSIC standings.
Up Next
The Cougars open the season at the Central Region Challenge in Pittsburg, Kansas, taking on Pittsburg State and Central Missouri.
USF begins NSIC action on November 25 at home against Southwest Minnesota State, who enters the season as the league's preseason No. 1 team.
Stay Connected
For all things USF Men's Basketball, be sure to download the USF Cougars app as well as follow along on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Be the first to know what's going on inside USF Athletics by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter!
