Game Summary

The University of Sioux Falls Women’s Basketball team demonstrated incredible resilience but fell short in their attempt to make a comeback, losing 87–79 to Southwest Minnesota State on Saturday afternoon at the R/A Facility. The Mustangs established a strong early lead that proved difficult for the Cougars to overcome, despite a determined second-half effort that brought them within four points late in the game.

With this loss, USF now has an overall record of 8–5 and a conference record of 5–3 in NSIC play. Meanwhile, SMSU improved to 7–6 (5–3 NSIC). Despite the setback, the Cougars showed a level of heart and determination that bodes well for future games. This was particularly evident in the performance of Krista Langager, who delivered one of the best games of her young career.

Key Performance Highlights

USF shot efficiently from the field, with a 51.5 percent shooting percentage, making 34 out of 66 attempts and hitting 6 of 10 three-pointers. However, the difference came down to key moments: the Cougars struggled from the free-throw line, converting only 5 of 10 shots, while SMSU made 12 free throws. Additionally, the Mustangs had a significant advantage on the boards, outrebounding USF 41–30 and converting 16 offensive rebounds into 18 second-chance points.

Southwest Minnesota State showcased a balanced offensive attack, with three players scoring over 20 points. Natalie Nielsen led the way with 26 points and 10 rebounds, followed by Audrey Swanson with 24 points and 11 rebounds, and Nicole Maenke adding 21 points, including three three-pointers.

For USF, Langager was exceptional, scoring a career-high 30 points and grabbing 14 rebounds on an impressive 14-for-17 shooting performance. Alexis Rose contributed 19 points and six assists, while Ayla Brown played a crucial role in orchestrating the offense with 13 points and nine assists, playing nearly the entire game.

How It Happened

First Quarter

Southwest Minnesota State quickly found its rhythm, taking the first quarter 24–17. USF managed a respectable 7-for-15 shooting from the field but struggled to get perimeter looks, attempting just one three-pointer. SMSU connected on three threes and went a perfect 3-for-3 at the free-throw line, building an early lead. Langager kept the Cougars competitive with nine points and six rebounds.

Second Quarter

The Mustangs extended their lead in the second quarter, outscoring USF 25–16 to take a commanding 49–33 halftime advantage. SMSU was efficient, shooting 11-for-16 from the field and 3-for-5 from beyond the arc, while dominating the paint with a 16–8 scoring edge. Langager continued her strong performance, going 3-for-3 in the quarter, but SMSU pushed its lead to as many as 20 points with 2:22 remaining before the break.

Third Quarter

USF began to find its footing after halftime, winning the third quarter 23–18 and breathing life back into the contest. Anna Vaaler sparked the surge with seven points, and the Cougars capitalized on four Mustang turnovers, converting them into seven points. USF shot 10-for-21 from the field and knocked down 3-of-4 threes, while the defense held SMSU to 40 percent shooting and started to slow down the Mustangs’ attack. The Cougars entered the fourth quarter trailing 67–56, still very much in the fight.

Fourth Quarter

The Cougars made it a game in the final period, clawing all the way back to within four points and giving themselves a chance. Brown orchestrated the comeback effort brilliantly with four assists in the quarter, while Langager added 10 more points to reach her career-high 30-point mark. The comeback attempt stalled after a critical and-one play by SMSU shifted momentum back to the home team, and the Mustangs were able to seal the victory 87–79.

Coach’s Corner

Head Coach Travis Traphagen expressed pride in the second half but disappointment in the first half. He noted that the team was not relaxed and felt like they were still on Christmas break in the first half. While acknowledging that Southwest Minnesota State is a tough team to beat at home, he emphasized the importance of every play in a basketball game.

Key Performances

Krista Langager:

– Career-high 30 points and 14 rebounds (six offensive) on 14-for-17 shooting

– Two steals and a block

Alexis Rose:

– 19 points on 7-for-13 shooting

– 6 assists, 4 rebounds, and 3-for-3 from three

Ayla Brown:

– 13 points, 9 assists, and 3 rebounds in 39:29 of action

Key Team Stats

• Rebounding: SMSU won the rebounding battle 41–30, collecting 16 offensive boards that led to 18 second-chance points.
• Paint Play: Both teams dominated inside, with USF scoring 46 points in the paint and SMSU edging them 48–46 in a physical battle.
• Resilience: The Cougars erased a 20-point second-quarter deficit and pulled within four late in the fourth quarter, showcasing their character and refusal to quit.
• Perimeter & Line: SMSU hit nine threes to USF’s six and made 12 free throws compared to five for the Cougars—small margins that made a big difference.

Up Next

The Cougars will return home for a nonconference matchup against the Northern State Wolves on Monday, January 5, inside the Stewart Center. The tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.