SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The University of Sioux Falls Men's Basketball team extended the conference's longest winning streak to seven games on Friday night, delivering a dominant second-half performance to pull away from the University of Mary 90–79 inside the Stewart Center. After weathering a turbulent first half filled with turnovers and defensive pressure, the Cougars settled in, attacked the rim with authority, and used depth and ice-cold free-throw shooting to seal the NSIC victory.

Game Summary

Sioux Falls flipped the script after halftime, transforming a five-point deficit into a commanding double-digit win. The Cougars shot a scorching 49.2 percent from the field for the game while clamping down defensively, holding UMary to just 40.3 percent. But the real story was at the free-throw line—USF created a massive advantage by converting 26-of-32 attempts, relentlessly attacking the basket while the Marauders settled for perimeter shots.

The Cougars dominated the glass 41–35, including 11 offensive rebounds that turned into 16 crushing second-chance points. Brogan Madson led all scorers with 23 points, repeatedly drawing contact and punishing Mary at the stripe. Kyle Ingwerson, Brandon Hrncir, and Jacoby Mehrman provided steady scoring and playmaking across the board. After trailing at the break, Sioux Falls outscored UMary 53–37 in the second half—a clinic in composure, execution, and sheer will.

How It Happened

First Half

The opening 20 minutes were a dogfight. Turnovers plagued Sioux Falls early and often—11 first-half giveaways that UMary converted into a staggering 21 points. The Marauders' press and matchup zone created chaos, disrupting USF's rhythm and forcing mistakes. Mary added three blocks and knocked down eight three-pointers, building a 42–37 halftime lead.

But the Cougars refused to fold. Despite the pressure, USF stayed within striking distance behind gutsy individual performances. Kyle Ingwerson poured in 11 points on three triples, keeping the offense afloat from the perimeter. Brogan Madson and Brandon Hrncir chipped in nine points apiece, attacking the basket and keeping Mary honest. Sioux Falls shot a respectable 43.3 percent from the field and 3-of-9 from three, but UMary edged the Cougars on the glass 24–21, collecting nine offensive rebounds that extended possessions and kept USF on its heels.

Second Half

The Cougars emerged from the locker room with a completely different energy—cleaner, sharper, and relentless. Sioux Falls outscored UMary 53–37 in the second half, turning a tight contest into a statement win. The difference? Ball security, aggressive offense, and an unshakable commitment to attacking the rim.

USF shot 16-of-29 from the field in the half and got to the free-throw line a jaw-dropping 21 times, converting 18 of those attempts with ruthless efficiency. Ball security improved dramatically—just five turnovers after halftime, a complete reversal from the chaotic first 20 minutes.

Brogan Madson was unstoppable, pouring in 14 second-half points with eight coming at the stripe. He drew contact, absorbed hits, and delivered when it mattered most. Brandon Hrncir and Jacoby Mehrman finished through contact, and the Cougars' depth allowed them to maintain relentless pressure on both ends. Sioux Falls gradually built separation, then closed the game with poise at the line and lockdown defense.

Coach's Corner

"Thought we really played well in the second half. Took care of the ball better and executed well on both ends. Gerard and Jacoby really gave us a spark off the bench with big plays on offense and defense."
— Head Coach Chris Johnson

Key Coo

• Brogan Madson – 23 points, 13-of-18 FT, 4 rebounds, 4 steals; drew 11 fouls
• Kyle Ingwerson – 19 points, 5-of-9 3PT, 8 rebounds, 2 assists
• Brandon Hrncir – 18 points, 8-of-8 FT, 7 rebounds
• Jacoby Mehrman – 12 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds
• Gerard Bosch – 8 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists

Key Team Stats

• Shooting: USF shot 49.2 percent from the field while holding UMary to 40.3 percent.
• Rebounding: The Cougars won the rebounding battle 41–35, including 11 offensive boards that led to 16 points.
• Free Throws: Sioux Falls dominated the line, going 26-of-32 compared to UMary's 9-of-10.
• Turnovers: USF cut first-half turnovers nearly in half after the break, committing just five in the second half.
• Style of Play: UMary made 12 three-pointers while USF leaned into paint attacks and free throws, creating a decisive contrast.

Up Next

The Cougars continue NSIC North play tomorrow, Saturday, January 17, hosting another conference matchup against Minot State at 3:00 p.m. inside the Stewart Center.

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