Just when you think Iowa native Grace Larkins has achieved it all on the basketball court, she surprises with yet another extraordinary feat. Playing for the USD Coyotes, she has been an outstanding performer, making waves not just in South Dakota but across the nation.
Last week was an unforgettable one for Larkins. Her performance on the court won her prestigious Summit League honors, adding another accolade to her growing list. The University of South Dakota, with its rich sports history, has undeniably been a crucial supporter in Larkins’ journey, providing a solid platform for her to showcase her immense talent.
Grace Larkins
Larkins’ outstanding performance in South Dakota’s 77-60 triumph over St. Thomas on Thursday night was a spectacle to behold. This native Iowan tied her career-high with 34 points, added 12 rebounds, and contributed eight assists. These stats not only won her Summit League honors but also helped her crack the top 10 in the Coyote record books for career steals.
The USD Coyotes, represented by vermilion and white colors, have been an integral part of South Dakota’s athletic identity. Since joining the Summit League in the 2011-12 school year, the Coyotes have showcased exceptional talent across various sports. Their basketball and volleyball teams are based out of the modern Sanford Coyote Sports Center, which has been their home since 2016.
The USD Coyotes have been no stranger to accomplishments. The Coyote women’s basketball team first appeared in the NCAA Division I Tournament in 2014 and went on to clinch the WNIT Championship in 2016. These achievements are just a glimpse of the deep sporting legacy that the University of South Dakota has cultivated over the years.
Summit League
The USD Coyotes are a proud part of South Dakota’s athletic framework, competing in the NCAA’s Division I as a member of the Summit League. The Summit League itself, which calls Sioux Falls home, has undergone numerous transformations since its inception in 1982. In 2023, this league expanded its media reach with new agreements with CBS Sports Network and Midco Sports, ensuring the accomplishments of athletes like Larkins gain wider recognition.
This season, Grace Larkins has racked up impressive numbers. She recently scored a career-high and program record 45 points in a spectacular 71-66 win over Omaha. This achievement not only set a new benchmark at USD but was the second-highest in Division I basketball this season, and the third highest in Summit League conference history. Her 45 points came from making a program record of 19 baskets, along with 13 rebounds, tying for her highest in a game this season, and six assists. Her performance has placed her fourth in the nation for points per game and 18th in assists.
These accomplishments have rightly brought Larkins national attention, earning her the distinction of AP National Player of the Week. Her presence has been instrumental in the Coyotes’ 9-9 season record, including a 3-1 mark in Summit League play. Next, the Coyotes head to Grand Forks for a matchup against North Dakota, aiming to consolidate their performance further.
South Dakota might have a smaller population, but its contributions to the sporting world are remarkably significant. Athletes from the 605 area have reached professional leagues across the United States, including the NBA, NFL, and beyond. The state’s dedication to sports is vast, nurturing talents like Grace Larkins who continues to set new standards.
At its core, this narrative is not just about the numbers and victories. It’s about the community rallying around its athletes, the pride that comes with donning vermilion and white, and the enduring legacy of sports in South Dakota. The success of Grace Larkins is a testament to the spirit of South Dakota—resilient, determined, and always striving for greatness.