By: Clint Neumann
Weekend Matchup Preview
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - The University of Sioux Falls Men's Basketball team (13-12, 9-10 NSIC) returns to the Stewart Center for a key NSIC matchup against Minnesota Crookston (5-19, 4-14 NSIC) on Friday at 5:30 PM. The Cougars will look to continue their momentum after their season sweeping victory over the Augustana Vikings, while the Golden Eagles come in trying to snap a three-game losing streak. This game marks Senior Night for USF, adding extra motivation as the Cougars aim to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.
USF took the first meeting between the teams, earning an 85-66 road victory on Jan. 4 behind a dominant double-double from Creighton Morisch (20 points, 15 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 blocks). The Cougars have won five straight games against Minnesota Crookston, holding a 14-3 all-time record against the Golden Eagles.
Scouting the Minnesota-Crookston Golden Eagles
The Golden Eagles have struggled this season, ranking 13th in the NSIC in scoring (68.2 PPG) while allowing 79.5 PPG (14th NSIC). They shoot 42.0% from the field (14th NSIC) and 31.6% from three (14th NSIC), relying on a grind-it-out style of play to stay competitive.
Crookston has also struggled on the boards, ranking 11th in the NSIC in rebounding (34.1 RPG) and posting a -4.1 rebounding margin. However, they are careful with the ball, averaging just 11.8 turnovers per game (10th NSIC) compared to USF's 13.6 turnovers per game (15th NSIC).
Despite their struggles, Minnesota Crookston is capable of pulling off upsets, as shown by their 68-65 victory over Minot State on Jan. 29. USF will need to limit mistakes and control the rebounding battle to avoid giving the Golden Eagles extra opportunities.
Key Players to Watch
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Reid Grant (G, Sr.): The offensive leader for UMC, Grant averages 16.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. He plays heavy minutes (36.5 per game, 1st NSIC) and is a primary ball handler who creates for himself and teammates.
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Micah Garrett (G, Jr.): A dangerous perimeter threat, Garrett scores 9.5 PPG while shooting 38.8% from three. If he gets hot from deep, he can change the course of the game.
Historical Matchup vs. Minnesota Crookston
USF has dominated the all-time series, holding a 14-3 record against Minnesota Crookston, including a 7-1 mark at home.
- Last Meeting (Jan. 4, 2025): USF 85, UMC 66 – The Cougars controlled the game from start to finish, led by Creighton Morisch's 20-point, 15-rebound performance.
- Last 10 Matchups: USF holds an 8-2 edge.
- Largest Margin of Victory: 98-68 (Feb. 21, 2018)
- Smallest Margin of Victory: 68-67 (Nov. 10, 2009)
Cougars at a Glance
The University of Sioux Falls Men's Basketball team enters the weekend with a 13-10 overall record and an 9-10 mark in NSIC play, sitting in the middle of the conference standings. USF is one of the most unselfish teams in the conference, leading the NSIC in assists per game (17.0). Their ability to move the ball and find open shooters has made them an efficient offensive team, as they shoot 45.3% from the field and 38.1% from three (T-2nd NSIC). The Cougars thrive when their offense is balanced, with multiple scoring threats contributing each night.
A major strength of this USF squad is their dominance on the boards. The Cougars rank second in the NSIC in total rebounds (39.4 RPG) and first offensive rebounds (12.1 O/RPG), often giving themselves second-chance opportunities while limiting opponents' production inside. Their biggest challenge this season has been turnovers (13.6 per game, 15th NSIC). If the Cougars can limit mistakes and tighten up their perimeter defense, they will put themselves in a strong position for success this weekend.
Key Players to Watch
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Creighton Morisch (C, Sr.): The NSIC's second leading rebounder (10.8 RPG), Morisch is averaging 14.0 PPG while shooting 53.3% from the field. He has also anchored the defense, leading the league in blocks (1.58 BPG).
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Noah Puetz (G/F, Sr.): A versatile scorer, Puetz averages 13.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, and 2.9 APG. He is one of USF's best free-throw shooters at 78.2%.
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Taylen Ashley (G, R-Fr.): The Cougars' primary playmaker, Ashley posts 13.1 PPG, 3.0 APG, and shoots 38.6% from three. His ability to run the offense will be critical in limiting turnovers.
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Shawn Warrior (G, Sr.): A tough, two-way player, Warrior provides 10.3 PPG and 6.1 RPG while anchoring USF's defense, leading the team with 28 steals.
Keys to Victory for the Cougars
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Control the Boards: USF is 2nd in the NSIC in rebounding (+6.8 margin), while Crookston ranks 13th (-4.1). Dominating the glass will be key.
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Limit Turnovers: The Cougars average 13.6 turnovers per game (15th NSIC). Taking care of the ball will prevent easy points for Crookston.
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Slow Down Reid Grant: The Golden Eagles' top scorer (16.3 PPG) plays heavy minutes and is their primary offensive weapon. Keeping him in check is crucial.
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Shoot Efficiently from Three: USF is 2nd in the NSIC in three-point shooting (38.1%), while Crookston ranks 14th in opponent three-point defense (36.9%).
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Establish Morisch Inside: The Cougars' senior big man had 20 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 assists in the last meeting. Getting him touches early will open up the offense.
Fan Information
- Tickets: Get your tickets to the final regular season home game here.
- Stream: Watch live on the NSIC Network.
- Live Stats: Follow along with live statistics here.
- Radio: Tune in to KWSN 98.1 FM / 1230 AM with Tom Frederick on the call.
- Social Media: Get updates on Twitter (@USFCougarsMBB) and Instagram (@USFCougarsMBB).
