SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – A late surge offensively by the Augustana women's basketball team was too much for Southwest Minnesota State to overcome as the Vikings defeated the Mustangs, 74-64, inside the Sanford Pentagon on Saturday afternoon.

The win secures a home contest for Augustana on Wednesday night in the opening round of the NSIC Tournament.

Augustana is elevated to 13-10 overall and 9-10 within the NSIC, while Southwest Minnesota State falls to 13-10 overall and 9-11 in the loop. 

With just over five minutes to play in regulation, Michaela Jewett gave Augustana a two-point advantage going 2-for-2 from the charity stripe to make it 60-58.

Two minutes later, Jennifer Aadland scored a basket on the block to give Augustana a four-point lead.

Southwest Minnesota State would get the ball stolen by Kenzie Rensch at halfcourt to close the door on a potential comeback for the Mustangs with 2:56 remaining and AU up 64-58.

The Vikings lead would swell to seven with 59 seconds remaining off free throws from Aislinn Duffy and a jumper by Aadland on the next possession.

Southwest Minnesota State was forced to foul down the stretch, increasing the Viking's lead from the free-throw line with the final score being 74-64.

The Vikings were led by Lauren Sees with 17 points while Duffy had 12 rebounds to go 15 points to continue her double-double average.

Three additional Vikings scored in double-figures with Aadland contributing 13, Rabb putting up 11 and Shiffler scoring 10. 

The Mustangs were led by Meleah Reinhart with 15 points while Sadie Stelter grabbed seven rebounds.

Up Next

The Vikings will host Northern State for the first round of the NSIC tournament on Wednesday inside the Sanford Pentagon slated for a 6 p.m. tipoff.

–GoAugie.com–