SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The University of Sioux Falls men's basketball team delivered a strong all-around performance Saturday afternoon inside the Stewart Center, defeating Winona State 85–70 in a Valentine's Day victory that showcased everything working in harmony. Behind balanced scoring, hot perimeter shooting, and dominant contributions from the bench, the Cougars controlled the game down the stretch to secure a critical NSIC victory and snap their losing streak.
Game Summary
Sioux Falls used depth, shooting, and discipline at the free-throw line to build separation in the second half and pull away from a competitive contest. The Cougars knocked down 10 three-pointers at a 37.0 percent clip while holding Winona State to a frigid 4-of-17 (23.5 percent) from deep. The perimeter disparity proved decisive—18 points from beyond the arc swinging the game in USF's favor.
USF also dominated at the free-throw line, making 21 free throws—more than the Warriors attempted (17)—which proved pivotal in a game that felt tight and competitive for much of the afternoon. Every time Winona threatened, the Cougars had an answer at the stripe.
Five Cougars scored in double figures, showcasing the offensive balance and depth that defined the night. Jacoby Mehrman led the way with an efficient 19 points on 6-of-9 shooting, consistently finding seams and finishing at the rim. Kyle Ingwerson and Lewis Woosnam each added 16 points, with Ingwerson drilling four threes and Woosnam providing a massive spark off the bench. Gerard Bosch chipped in 12 points on perfect 4-of-4 free-throw shooting, and Brogan Madson capped of the double digit scorers with 10.
But here's the stat that tells the story: USF's bench production was a major factor, outscoring Winona State's reserves 30–1. Depth won this game.
How It Happened
First Half
The Cougars came out aggressive offensively, hitting five first-half three-pointers—four of them from Kyle Ingwerson—while converting all seven of their free-throw attempts. Ingwerson was on fire early, stretching the defense and creating driving lanes for his teammates. USF shot 44.4 percent from the floor and built steady momentum through beautiful ball movement and second-chance opportunities.
Lewis Woosnam provided a major spark off the bench with 12 first-half points and four rebounds, attacking with energy and giving USF a lift when they needed it. The bench unit was rolling, helping the Cougars generate 18 bench points before halftime—a sign of things to come.
USF also capitalized on four Winona State turnovers, turning them into seven points, and added 13 second-chance points by attacking the offensive glass and crashing the boards. Although the Warriors shot a respectable 44.8 percent from the field, they were limited to just 1-of-9 from three—a gap that kept growing. The Cougars carried a 44–37 lead into the break, firmly in control but knowing Winona wasn't going away quietly.
Second Half
The game remained competitive early in the second half as Winona continued to battle and find scoring inside. But USF's efficiency and execution eventually created the separation needed to put the game away. The Cougars shot 50 percent (11-of-22) from the field after halftime and connected on 5-of-12 from three (41.7 percent), finding open looks and knocking them down with confidence.
They also continued to control the free-throw line, the one place Winona couldn't match them, converting 14-of-18 attempts in the half and consistently getting to the stripe when they needed points.
Winona State remained efficient offensively, shooting 51.9 percent (14-of-27) in the half and refusing to fold, but the Warriors struggled to get to the line, attempting just five free throws and making only two. That disparity—combined with USF's hot perimeter shooting—proved insurmountable.
USF maintained control of possessions late, working the clock intelligently, executing in the halfcourt, and staying disciplined defensively. The Cougars gradually extended the lead and closed out the 85–70 victory with poise and composure down the stretch, never giving Winona a realistic chance to make a final push.
Key Team Stats
- Perimeter Defense: USF hit 10-of-27 from three (37.0 percent) while holding WSU to just 4-of-17 (23.5 percent), creating an 18-point scoring gap from beyond the arc. The three-point line was the difference.
- Free Throw Edge: The Cougars made 21 free throws—more than Winona State attempted (17)—and shot 21-of-25 overall (84 percent).
- Bench Production: USF's bench outscored WSU 30–1, fueled by Woosnam's 16-point effort and key contributions throughout the rotation.
Key Cougars
Coach's Corner
"Really proud of our response tonight, especially with some guys out. Jacoby, Woosnam, and Kyle all had big scoring nights and I really liked how Taylen got everyone involved. Big win for this group."
– Head Coach Chris Johnson
Up Next
The Cougars close out the regular season next week with two key matchups. USF will host Wayne State on Wednesday, February 18th at 7:30 p.m. inside the Stewart Center before traveling to face Augustana on Saturday, February 21st at 3:30 p.m.
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