SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – In a game that lived up to every bit of the rivalry hype, the University of Sioux Falls men's basketball team dropped a high-scoring battle to Augustana 104–93 Saturday afternoon in the Elmen Center. The Cougars shot nearly 50 percent from the field and knocked down 13 three-pointers in an offensive showcase, but Augustana's 61-point second half and dominance on the glass proved to be the difference in a game that featured more offense than defense.
USF built a double-digit lead in the first half behind blistering perimeter shooting, but the Vikings answered with wave after wave of scoring to pull away late and close out both teams' regular seasons.
Game Summary
Offense was never the issue for Sioux Falls. The Cougars shot 49.3 percent from the field (33-67) and a strong 48.1 percent from three (13-27), including a scorching 9-of-14 performance from deep in the first half. The shots were falling. The offense was flowing. The execution was there.
Brogan Madson led the charge with 31 points, hitting six three-pointers while adding seven rebounds, five assists, and three steals in another stellar all-around performance. Brandon Hrncir was nearly perfect inside, pouring in 21 points on 9-of-12 shooting. Taylen Ashley added 13 points and eight rebounds, providing physicality and energy.
But Augustana matched and eventually surpassed that offensive efficiency with a second-half barrage. The Vikings shot 54.4 percent from the field in the second half and finished the game shooting 54.4 percent from three while going 22-of-26 (84.6 percent) from the free-throw line. They were unconscious from the stripe and relentless from all three levels.
USF struggled to generate defensive stops down the stretch and was outrebounded 36–28, including 17 second-chance points allowed—key extra possessions that swung momentum late and kept the Vikings in control when the game was on the line.
How It Happened
First Half
The opening 20 minutes were electric offensively for the Cougars. USF shot 17-of-32 (53.1 percent) from the field and a blistering 9-of-14 (64.3 percent) from beyond the arc to build a 48–43 halftime advantage. The three-point line was on fire.
Brogan Madson was absolutely lights out, scoring 18 first-half points with five made threes, constantly stretching the defense and creating space for teammates. Kyle Ingwerson added eight points and five rebounds, providing complementary scoring and energy.
The Cougars assisted on 12 of their 17 made field goals in the half, showcasing crisp ball movement, spacing, and unselfish play. USF built a 12-point lead with just over three minutes remaining in the half, appearing in complete control.
But Augustana chipped away before the break. The Vikings found success attacking the paint, outscoring USF 28–16 inside in the first half and setting the tone for their interior emphasis throughout the game. The lead had been trimmed to five by halftime, and the momentum was shifting.
Second Half
Sioux Falls briefly rebuilt its lead to double digits early in the second half, looking to put the game away. But Augustana responded each time with timely shot-making, refusing to fold and answering every USF run with one of their own.
The Vikings shot an absolutely blistering 21-of-35 (60 percent) in the half, including 6-of-11 from three and a near-perfect 13-of-14 from the free-throw line. They couldn't miss. They wouldn't miss. Every time the Cougars made a push, Augustana had an answer.
Brandon Hrncir scored 16 second-half points on efficient shooting, and Madson added 13 more while battling fatigue and defensive attention. But USF could not contain Augustana's balanced scoring attack or match their intensity on the glass.
The Vikings controlled the boards 22–10 in the half, repeatedly earning second-chance opportunities and limiting USF's ability to generate extra possessions. Those offensive rebounds proved critical, giving Augustana extra chances that turned into points and momentum. The Vikings' 61-point second half ultimately secured the 104–93 victory, handing USF a tough loss to close the regular season.
Key Team Stats
- Shooting Battle: USF shot 49.3 percent from the field and 48.1 percent from three, but Augustana countered with 54.4 percent from deep and 84.6 percent at the free-throw line. Both teams were on fire offensively.
- Rebounding: The Vikings outrebounded USF 36–28 and converted 17 second-chance points into key momentum swings that kept them in control late.
- Free Throws: USF went 14-of-17 from the line, while Augustana capitalized on 22-of-26 opportunities. The disparity at the stripe proved costly.
- Balanced Scoring: Five Cougars reached double figures, but Augustana featured three players with 24 or more points, showcasing their offensive depth and firepower.
Key Cougars
Coach's Corner
"Was a hard-fought game, fun game to play in for the guys. We just couldn't get any stops down the stretch. We just have to keep getting better."
– Head Coach Chris Johnson
Up Next
The regular season has concluded for the Cougars, who now turn their attention to the NSIC Tournament beginning Wednesday, February 25th. Opponent and game time are still to be determined. Fans can stay up to date with the bracket release at northernsun.org.
Stay Connected
For all things USF Men's Basketball, be sure to download the USF Cougars app as well as follow along on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Be the first to know what's going on inside USF Athletics by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter!
