By: Clint Neumann
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - The University of Sioux Falls Women's Basketball team welcomes crosstown rival Augustana to the Stewart Center on Saturday at 5:00 p.m. in one of the most anticipated matchups of the early season.
USF enters riding momentum—winners of five straight with a 5–2 overall record and a perfect 2–0 mark in NSIC play. Augustana arrives at 3–4 after navigating one of the region's most challenging nonconference schedules, setting the stage for a rivalry clash with contrasting narratives.
Scouting Augustana (3-4, 0-2 NSIC)
Augustana enters Saturday's rivalry matchup at 3–4 overall but remains one of the NSIC's most dangerous and high-upside teams. The Vikings average 73.3 points per game and shoot 40.1 percent from the field while ranking second in the conference in three-point percentage at 36.8 percent. Their offense is built on pace, spacing, and the versatility of multiple scoring threats who force opponents to defend all areas of the floor. Augustana also rebounds at an elite level, leading the NSIC at 42.7 boards per game and ranking first in defensive rebounds per contest.
The Vikings' attack is led by standout forward Isabella Sanneh, who is averaging 16.4 points and 10.9 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently around the rim. She ranks among the NSIC's top rebounders on both ends of the floor and anchors a frontcourt that creates consistent second-chance opportunities. On the perimeter, guard Kristin Edmonds has emerged as one of the league's most efficient shooters, hitting 51.4 percent from three with 19 made triples already this season. Guard Maliyah Elliott adds 3.7 assists per game and helps drive a balanced offensive system that spreads the ball and stretches defenses.
Defensively, Augustana's length and physicality stand out. The Vikings are holding opponents to 40.3 percent shooting and their ability to clean the glass makes them particularly dangerous during momentum swings, presenting a multi-layered challenge for any opponent — including a USF team riding a strong offensive stretch coming into the matchup.
Cougar Spotlight
USF enters Saturday's rivalry game playing its best basketball of the season, carrying a five-game winning streak and one of the most efficient offenses in the NSIC. The Cougars are averaging 74.7 points per game while shooting 45.1 percent from the field and 36.0 percent from three, ranking among the league leaders in both categories. Their balance, pace, and shot selection have continued to improve with each outing, giving them a well-rounded identity heading into their biggest matchup yet.
Sophomore standout Anna Vaaler has been the engine behind USF's surge, ranking third in the NSIC at 22.9 points per game while also grabbing 9.1 rebounds per contest. She is shooting a remarkable 50 percent from three (19-of-38), giving USF a versatile scoring threat capable of stretching defenses and creating space for the rest of the lineup. Around her, the Cougars are seeing strong production from multiple contributors, including Alexis Rose at 11.4 points per game and freshman post Krista Langager, who is averaging 10.6 points and 6.1 rebounds while ranking fourth in the NSIC in offensive boards.
Point guard Ayla Brown continues to be the team's steadying presence, ranking second in the conference in assists (40) while also averaging 9.3 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. Her ability to control tempo and create advantages in the half court has elevated USF's offensive rhythm during their winning streak. Defensively, the Cougars average 9.3 steals per game, showing active hands and strong anticipation, and their +1.71 turnover margin has helped fuel transition opportunities. With multiple scorers, improved defensive cohesion, and growing confidence, USF enters Saturday well-positioned for another high-level performance.
Numbers Game
- Scoring Pace: USF averages 74.7 points per game — one of the top marks in the NSIC — giving the Cougars the firepower to keep up with Augie's transition-heavy offense.
- Hot Hand: Anna Vaaler is shooting 50% from three (19-of-38), forcing defenses to extend and opening driving lanes for USF.
- Glass Check: Augustana leads the NSIC with 42.7 rebounds per game; controlling the defensive boards will be critical to limiting their second-chance scoring.
- Ball Movement: Ayla Brown ranks second in the NSIC with 40 assists — her pace and decision-making will help counter Augie's aggressive closeouts.
- Turnover Margin: USF sits at +1.71 in turnover margin; protecting the ball will be a priority against an Augustana team that thrives on momentum swings.
- Perimeter Threat: The Vikings shoot 36.8% from three (2nd NSIC), making perimeter defense a major key to slowing their scoring rhythms.
Coach's Corner
"Should be a good matchup between rival teams. I think both teams are starting to learn a lot about themselves in this early season. I like the direction we are trending, but we have to continue to work on consistency in all aspects of our game. I think we can all agree games like this are always a lot of fun for the players and fans. We look forward to a challenging game and need to continue to improve if we want to reach our goals this season."
— Head Coach Travis Traphagen
Inside the Gym
Tipoff: Saturday, Dec. 6 | 5:00 p.m.
Location: Stewart Center – Sioux Falls, S.D.
Broadcast: usfcougars.com/coverage
Live Stats: usfcougars.com
Tickets: usfcougars.com/tickets
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