Sioux Falls drops heartbreaker to SMSU

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (USF) – The University of Sioux Falls softball team saw its 2026 season come to a close this afternoon, falling 1-0 to Southwest Minnesota State in the opening round of the NSIC Softball Tournament at Bowden Field.

In a tightly contested pitcher’s duel, a solo home run in the third inning proved to be the difference as the Cougars finished the season at 28-28 overall.

How It Happened

Both teams traded scoreless frames early, with Maddi Duncan and SMSU’s Jordyn Marsh settling into a rhythm in the circle.

The lone run of the game came in the bottom of the third inning when SMSU’s Grace Anderson connected on a solo home run to left center, giving the Mustangs a 1-0 lead.

Sioux Falls’ best scoring opportunity came in the top of the third inning. Charlie Pryor reached on a bunt single and advanced to third following an error and a stolen base, but the Cougars were unable to bring her home.

From there, Marsh kept the Cougar offense in check, retiring the final 13 hitters she faced and limiting Sioux Falls to just one hit in the contest.

In the Circle

• Maddi Duncan: 6.0 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 3 K

At the Plate

• Charlie Pryor: 1-for-2, SB

Season Summary

Sioux Falls concludes the 2026 campaign with a 28-28 overall record and a 16-14 mark in NSIC play, earning the No. 9 seed in the conference tournament.

The Cougars showcased resilience throughout the season, highlighted by key wins, record-breaking performances, and a strong senior class that helped guide the program back to postseason play.