BISMARCK, N.D. – The University of Sioux Falls women's basketball team battled throughout but came up short in a 66-58 loss to UMary (15-11, 12-10) on Saturday night at the McDowell Activity Center. With the result, USF (16-13, 12-10 NSIC) closes out the regular season and now shifts focus to a home playoff game against the #12 seed Minnesota-Crookston in the opening round of the NSIC Tournament. 

First Quarter 

Sioux Falls and UMary traded baskets early in a defensive-minded opening frame. The Cougars knocked down two three-pointers and forced a few turnovers, but UMary's inside presence kept them in the game. The teams finished the quarter tied at 14-14. 

Second Quarter 

Both teams struggled to find consistent offense in the second quarter, as Sioux Falls shot just 26.7% from the field. UMary edged ahead by getting to the free-throw line, making 5-of-6 attempts, while USF stayed within striking distance. At halftime, UMary led 28-26. 

Third Quarter 

UMary found its rhythm in the third quarter, outscoring USF 18-13 to extend their lead. The Cougars had difficulty containing UMary's perimeter shooting, as the Marauders connected on three three-pointers in the period. Sioux Falls responded with strong play from Kami Wadsworth and Anna Vaaler, but UMary took a 46-39 lead into the final quarter. 

Fourth Quarter 

Sioux Falls made a push in the fourth, cutting the deficit to as little as three points, but UMary capitalized on key free throws down the stretch. The Cougars shot 47.1% in the final frame, but UMary closed the game with a 20-19 edge in the quarter to seal the 66-58 victory. 

Key Team Stats 

• Shooting Struggles: USF shot 36.7% from the field (22-of-60) and 35.0% from three (7-of-20). 

• Rebounding Battle: UMary outrebounded Sioux Falls 47-29, leading to second-chance opportunities. 

• Turnovers: USF forced 20 UMary turnovers but committed 15 of their own. 

• Points in the Paint: The Cougars had a slight advantage inside, scoring 28 points in the paint compared to UMary's 26. 

• Bench Struggles: USF's bench contributed just 4 points, while UMary's reserves poured in 54 points. 

Key Coo 

• Kami Wadsworth: Led USF with 24 points on 10-of-19 shooting, adding 4 rebounds in a strong effort. 

• Anna Vaaler: Provided a scoring boost with 18 points and four three-pointers, helping keep USF in the game. 

• Ayla Brown: Facilitated the offense with 8 assists, 4 points, and 4 rebounds. 

Up Next 

With a wrap on the regular season, the Cougars now turn their focus to the NSIC tournament, where they'll take on Minnesota-Crookston Wednesday, February 26th at 6:00pm in the Stewart Center! For more on the NSIC Tournament, head over to the 2025 NSIC Women's Basketball Tournament page.

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