SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The Sioux Falls Cougars (13-12, 9-10 NSIC) claimed city bragging rights with an 86-80 road win over Augustana (10-15, 7-12 NSIC) at the Elmen Center. Creighton Morisch led the way with a career-best 24 points, adding nine rebounds and seven assists in a dominant all-around performance. USF erased a halftime deficit with a strong second half, shooting over 63% from the field after the break to secure the win. 

1st Half:  

Both teams came out firing in an up-tempo first half. Sioux Falls found success inside, scoring 20 of their 39 first-half points in the paint, while Augustana countered with an impressive 8-of-11 shooting mark from beyond the arc. The Cougars and Vikings traded runs, with Augustana holding a lead as large as 16 points midway through the half. 

USF responded late in the first half, closing the gap with a 10-2 run fueled by tough interior play from Morisch and Noah Puetz. Taylen Ashley capped off the surge with a three-pointer in the final minute, bringing USF within five as they trailed 44-39 at the break. 

2nd Half: 

Sioux Falls wasted no time regaining momentum, opening the second half with an 11-2 run to take the lead. Morisch continued his stellar night, finishing in the paint and knocking down a three to power the surge. 

The Cougars' defensive adjustments paid off, as they limited Augustana to just 18.2% shooting from beyond the arc in the second half after their red-hot start. USF also dominated the glass, outrebounding the Vikings 33-21, creating second-chance opportunities to extend possessions. 

With under a minute remaining, Sioux Falls held a six-point lead and closed the game efficiently, knocking down key free throws and forcing a final defensive stop to seal the win. 

Key Team Stats 

• Field Goal Percentage: USF shot 56.7% (34-of-60) from the field, including a blistering 63.3% in the second half. 

• Three-Point Shooting: The Cougars finished 44% (11-of-25) from beyond the arc. 

• Rebounding Battle: USF held a 33-21 advantage on the boards, including six offensive rebounds. 

• Assists: Sioux Falls moved the ball well, tallying 24 assists on 34 made field goals. 

• Points in the Paint: The Cougars outscored Augustana 44-26 inside. 

Key Coo 

• Creighton Morisch: Career-high 24 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 blocks and 2 steals, shooting 8-of-14 from the field. 

• Noah Puetz: Added 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists while hitting two three-pointers. 

• Shawn Warrior: Shot an efficient 7-of-9 for 14 points, contributing 2 rebounds and 2 assists. 

• Taylen Ashley: Scored 11 points with 5 rebounds and 4 assists, providing key ball movement. 

• Kyle Ingwerson: Knocked down three triples, finishing with 11 points and 6 rebounds. 

Up Next 

The Cougars will host their final home game of the season Friday, Feb 14th when they take on Minnesota-Crookston at 3:30pm in the Stewart Center. Come out and support our wonderful group of seniors! 

For all things USF Men's Basketball, be sure to download the USF Cougars app as well as follow along on Instagram and Twitter!