SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The University of Sioux Falls (15-11, 11-8 NSIC) women's basketball team put together a complete performance, securing an 83-65 win over Augustana (6-19, 4-15) at the Elmen Center on Tuesday night. The Cougars knocked down 16 three-pointers and shared the ball well, dishing out 24 assists on 31 made field goals. Sioux Falls led from the opening minutes and never looked back, holding a lead for nearly 38 minutes of game time. 

1st Quarter:  

Sioux Falls wasted no time setting the tone, coming out hot from deep with six first-quarter three-pointers. Ayla Brown led the charge with two early triples, while Alexis Rose and Megan Fannin added to the long-range barrage. The Cougars also took advantage of Augustana's early mistakes, scoring eight points off turnovers. With efficient shooting and strong defensive rebounding, USF built a 27-11 lead after the first 10 minutes. 

2nd Quarter: 

Augustana responded in the second quarter with more efficient offense, outscoring USF 19-16 in the frame. The Cougars' defense tightened up inside, forcing the Vikings into outside shots. Brecli Honner provided a key spark off the bench, going 4-for-4 from the field in the game, including two three-pointers, while also grabbing six rebounds. Despite a push from Augustana, Sioux Falls maintained a 43-30 lead at halftime. 

3rd Quarter:  

Both teams traded baskets in the third quarter, with Sioux Falls continuing to move the ball well and knock down shots from beyond the arc. Honner and Alexis Rose each hit from deep, keeping the Vikings at bay. Augustana found success in the paint, scoring 34 points inside for the game, but the Cougars' outside shooting kept them in control. USF took a 58-50 lead into the final quarter. 

4th Quarter:  

Sioux Falls put the game away with a dominant fourth quarter, scoring 25 points on 75% shooting. The Cougars hit five three-pointers in the period, including clutch shots from Dani Minsaas and Rose to seal the win. Wadsworth continued to distribute well, finishing with five assists, while the team's defense held Augustana to just 15 fourth-quarter points. Sioux Falls closed strong, securing the 83-65 victory. 

Key Team Stats 

• Three-Point Barrage: USF hit 16-of-38 (42.1%) from three, with Ayla Brown contributing 4. 

• Ball Movement: The Cougars dished out 24 assists on 31 made field goals, showcasing their unselfish play. 

• Rebounding Advantage: USF won the battle on the boards 38-27, led by Wadsworth and Honner with seven and six rebounds, respectively. 

• Bench Production: The Cougars' depth shined, with the bench contributing 34 points. 

• Defensive Effort: Sioux Falls forced 14 turnovers, leading to 17 points off giveaways. 

Key Coo 

• Ayla Brown: Led USF with 18 points on 7-of-10 shooting, adding six rebounds and six assists. 

• Kami Wadsworth: Stuffed the stat sheet with 15 points, seven rebounds, and five assists in a well-rounded effort. 

• Brecli Honner: Provided a spark off the bench, scoring 12 points on a perfect 4-of-4 from the field, while grabbing six rebounds. 

• Megan Fannin: Knocked down two three-pointers, finishing with 12 points and two assists. 

• Alexis Rose: Scored 10 points, hitting three three-pointers, while adding four rebounds and two blocks. 

Up Next 

The Cougars will host their final home game of the season Friday, Feb 14th when they take on Minnesota-Crookston at 7:30pm in the Stewart Center. Come out and support our wonderful group of seniors! 

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