As the excitement of college basketball sweeps across the nation, South Dakota finds itself at the heart of an intense and thrilling season. Sioux Falls, a city steeped in sports tradition, plays host to some of the most nail-biting encounters in the Summit League’s women’s basketball campaign. With its picturesque landscapes and a deep-rooted love for college sports, South Dakota not only embraces but enriches this exhilarating basketball journey.
South Dakota State University, home to the valiant Jackrabbits, is at the forefront of this sporting spectacle. The Jackrabbits, a symbol of perseverance and excellence, are unbeaten in the opening weekend of Summit League play. Their stunning victories over rivals Oral Roberts and Denver have reverberated throughout the league. South Dakota State, North Dakota State, and Omaha are the only teams to emerge unscathed from the initial clashes, setting the stage for a thrilling race towards the Summit League regular season title.
This week, basketball enthusiasts in South Dakota and beyond will be treated to a series of electrifying matchups, with games on Thursday and Saturday meticulously scheduled to continue the fierce competition. The Summit League Network provides a portal into the heart of the action, streaming all four games on Thursday at 7 p.m. CT.
- Omaha at (RV) South Dakota State
- Oral Roberts at North Dakota
- St. Thomas at South Dakota
- Denver at North Dakota State
Focusing on the prowess of South Dakota State, Haleigh Timmer stands out as an embodiment of skill and dedication. This redshirt junior guard, majoring in Mathematics, has been pivotal in the team’s wins, averaging 12.0 points per game. Her ability to consistently deliver under pressure earned her the honor of being named the 2022-23 Summit League Tournament MVP. The Jackrabbits’ success is also highlighted by their presence on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where fans engage passionately with the team’s journey.
Haleigh Timmer
Meanwhile, North Dakota State’s Avery Koenen demonstrates a remarkable blend of skill and tactical prowess. Koenen, a sophomore sensation, secured a double-double in the team’s league opener against St. Thomas, registering 13 points and 11 rebounds to lead her team to victory.
Avery Koenen
The South Dakota communities relish these moments, as basketball games serve as a unifying force, drawing people together in celebration of athletic achievement. The fervor extends to the upcoming Summit League Championship, scheduled to take place at the iconic Denny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls from March 5-9. Tickets for this highly anticipated event are already on sale, catering to the fervent anticipation that surrounds the championship.
Omaha’s triumph over North Dakota, powered by Ja Harvey’s career-high 24 points, underscores the dynamic and unpredictable nature of college basketball. Harvey’s exceptional performance, further embellished with four rebounds, four steals, and three assists, showcases the depth of talent within the league.
Ja Harvey
In a similar vein, Grace Larkins from South Dakota has established herself as a force to be reckoned with. Her double-double performance, averaging 29.0 points and 12.5 rebounds per game, reflects the robust spirit and determination characteristic of the teams from South Dakota.
The Summit League women’s basketball teams, with strong ties to their communities, showcase the fierce competitive spirit that thrives in South Dakota. Each game narrates a story of grit and determination, as players and fans unite in their passion for the sport.
As the season progresses, the narrative of South Dakota’s basketball prowess will continue to unfold, inviting both local supporters and national audiences to witness the spectacular journey of the Summit League. Sioux Falls, the vibrant epicenter of this sporting saga, embodies the tenacity and enthusiasm that define South Dakota’s sporting spirit.