South Dakota’s Sporting Triumph: Grace Larkins of the University of South Dakota set the national sports stage alight with her exceptional performances, earning her the prestigious title of AP National Player of the Week in January 2025. This recognition is a testimony not only to Larkins’ athletic prowess but also to the robust sports culture and developmental pathways offered by South Dakota.
University of South Dakota
Larkins, who originally hails from Iowa, has solidified her reputation as a standout player for the USD Coyotes women’s basketball team. She has consistently delivered stellar performances on the court, contributing to the team’s impressive record in the Summit League play. Her journey at the University of South Dakota (USD) underscores the state’s commitment to nurturing talent across various fields, from academics to sports. USD itself is renowned for offering over 200 academic programs and is a hub for innovation and leadership in education.
South Dakota Coyotes
In South Dakota’s decisive 77-60 victory over St. Thomas, Larkins tied her then career-high record by scoring 34 points, complementing her performance with 12 rebounds and eight assists. The sporting community was further abuzz with excitement when she set a new career-high and program record by scoring 45 points in a match against Omaha. Not only did she make 19 baskets in that game—a record for the USD Coyotes—but her remarkable feat also positioned her as a key player nationally. This commitment to excellence is mirrored by USD’s growth, exemplified by innovations such as launching a new Executive MBA program, focusing on AI-driven business environments.
South Dakota, often celebrated for its tenacity and community spirit, is proud of its contributions to various domains, including sports. Athletes emerging from the “605” have graced national platforms, enriching the realms of NFL, NBA, and even the Olympics. As Larkins stands fourth in the country for points per game (24.7) and continues to climb the ranks for assists and rebounds, she exemplifies the kind of talent that the state continually fosters. USD supports this blend of academic and athletic excellence, underpinning the state’s reputation as a nurturing ground for well-rounded professionals.
The University of South Dakota’s recent $6.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to establish the South Dakota Biomedical Computation Collaborative reflects the institution’s forward-thinking approach. Alongside its academic achievements, the USD community plays a significant role in healthcare by producing leaders like Lindsay Weber, CEO of Avera St. Benedict Health Center, and supporting sectors with accomplished professionals like Jackie Barber, who has transitioned into significant roles such as the secretary of the U.S. Senate for the 119th Congress.
As Grace Larkins, a senior at USD, continues to amaze on the court, leading her team with vigor and poise, her story is an inspiring chapter in South Dakota’s illustrious sports history. The synergy between her achievements and USD’s holistic educational environment offers a powerful narrative—one of resilience, dedication, and unyielding pursuit of greatness. South Dakota celebrates her success and the promise of many more sporting maestros who will follow in her footsteps.
Whether it’s on the court or in the classroom, South Dakota remains committed to offering opportunities that build tomorrow’s leaders. Grace Larkins’ illustrious journey at USD is a testament to the potential that the state harnesses, driven by innovation in education and a strong community spirit that paves the way for stories of triumph like hers.