SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The University of Sioux Falls Women's Basketball team put together a strong effort against one of the nation's top teams but ultimately fell 93–82 to No. 2 Minnesota State on Sunday evening inside the Stewart Center. The Cougars traded punches throughout the night and closed strong in the fourth quarter, but a decisive stretch late in the first half allowed the Mavericks to create separation in a physical, high-level NSIC battle.
Game Summary
USF shot an efficient 50.0 percent from the field and 42.9 percent from three, finishing 9-for-21 from deep in one of its better perimeter performances of the season. The Cougars were led by a balanced scoring attack, with Anna Vaaler and Krista Langager each scoring 24 points, while Ayla Brown added 14 points and six assists. Despite the strong shooting night, Minnesota State controlled the interior, scoring 56 points in the paint and grabbing 18 offensive rebounds that led to 19 second-chance points.
The Mavericks finished 37-for-81 from the floor and capitalized on extra possessions and turnovers, scoring 24 points off USF giveaways. Natalie Bremer delivered a dominant performance with 32 points on 13-of-19 shooting, consistently finishing through contact. Minnesota State also won the rebounding battle 45–34, which proved critical in a game that featured three ties and four lead changes.
How It Happened
First Quarter
USF came out aggressive and confident, opening the game with a strong first quarter by shooting 8-for-18 and knocking down four threes. Vaaler set the tone early from the perimeter, while Ayla Brown sliced through the defense as the Cougars built a 23–18 lead after one. Minnesota State struggled from deep in the quarter but stayed close by attacking the paint and getting 4 points at the free throw line..
Second Quarter
The momentum shifted in the second quarter as Minnesota State asserted itself physically on both ends. The Mavericks shot 12-for-24 in the period and held USF to just 13 points, forcing tough possessions and converting points off turnovers. A late surge in the final three minutes before halftime allowed Minnesota State to stretch the lead to 46–36 at the break, creating separation against a Cougar team that missed opportunities at the free-throw line.
Third Quarter
USF looked to regain momentum coming out of halftime, but Minnesota State continued to control the paint and glass. The Mavericks scored 25 points in the third quarter, shooting 9-for-21 and getting to the line six times. USF answered with 17 points of its own behind points from all five starters, but the deficit remained double digits heading into the fourth.
Fourth Quarter
The Cougars delivered their best offensive quarter of the night in the final frame, scoring 29 points on 10-for-14 shooting and going a perfect 5-for-5 at the free-throw line. USF also went 4-for-4 from three in the quarter, trimming the margin and putting pressure on the Mavericks late. Minnesota State responded with timely baskets and free throws to hold off the comeback and secure the 93–82 win.
Coach's Corner
"We got beat by a very, very good basketball team. I was very proud of the efforts of our kids. I really thought the defining moment was the last three minutes before half when we let them get up 10. Against great teams like this, you can't let them separate. Natalie Bremer is a stud — we had no answer for her — so all the credit in the world goes to Mankato. But honestly, against a team of this caliber, I'm very proud of the effort we gave, and hopefully we can take some of that momentum into Christmas break."
— Head Coach Travis Traphagen
Key Coo
Key Team Stats
- Paint Control: Minnesota State scored 56 points in the paint, creating consistent pressure inside.
- Second Chances: The Mavericks grabbed 18 offensive rebounds and scored 19 second-chance points.
- Turnovers: Minnesota State converted 24 points off USF turnovers.
- Perimeter Shooting: USF shot 42.9 percent from three, including a 4-for-4 fourth quarter.
- Late Push: The Cougars scored 29 fourth-quarter points and shot over 70 percent in the final 10 minutes.
Up Next
The Cougars return to action on Friday, January 3, traveling to Marshall, Minnesota, to face Southwest Minnesota State at 4:00 p.m.
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