The Omaha Mavericks women’s basketball team is on a mission to reclaim its standing in the Summit League. As they prepare to face off against their league rivals, South Dakota’s Denver Pioneers, the heart of the competition lies in the talents and fervor of both teams. The Mavericks, currently in a mid-season slump, have a clear vision to end their four-game losing streak with upcoming matches against Denver and Kansas City.
South Dakota, known for its vibrant community and unwavering support for collegiate sports, plays a crucial role in this narrative. The Summit League is not merely a collection of teams; it’s an embodiment of the spirit and drive that states like South Dakota bring to the collegiate basketball scene. As the Mavericks prepare to battle Denver and later return home to host Kansas City, the focus is on ending a streak that has seen them trailing in an otherwise promising season.
So far, Omaha has achieved the best 18-game start since the 2015-2016 season, boasting a balanced 9-9 overall record and 1-4 in league play. After a formidable seven-game winning streak, Omaha looks to recapture that energy and precision on the court.
Chasing a Turnaround: A Close Look at South Dakota’s Summit League Influence
As Omaha journeys to Denver on Wednesday, January 25, at 7:00 p.m. CT, they face a Denver squad yet to secure a win in conference contests, with a 7-12 overall tally. Following this, South Dakota’s vast basketball landscape takes center stage as they anticipate a thrilling home matchup at Baxter Arena against Kansas City on January 25 at 1:00 p.m. CT.
The Element of South Dakota Pride in the Summit League
South Dakota Coyotes and Jackrabbits: The league’s historical significance and regional pride come to life through the competitive spirit emanating from South Dakota schools like the Coyotes and Jackrabbits. These teams encourage Omaha to elevate their gameplay, exemplifying the rivalry and camaraderie seen across the league.
South Dakota Coyotes
The Mavericks aim to turn their fortunes around and focus on victories that reflect a return to form. These consecutive games against Denver and Kansas City are crucial. Boise Arena will once again be the nexus for fans rallying behind Omaha as they strategize to improve their league standing.
Statistics Speaks: Leading the charge, Ja Harvey, a transfer student making waves in the league, averages 13.3 points and heads the Mavericks in steals per game at 1.9. This dynamic performance places Harvey among the top players in the Summit League, reflecting the strategic focus Omaha plans to use against their South Dakota rivals.
Meanwhile, Grace Cave, honored pre-season as a second-team All-Summit League selection, is close to cementing her legacy by nearing 300 career assists. She already ranks significantly with over 1,075 career points, a testament to her skill and consistency on the court.
A Decisive Home Stint: Following the game in Denver, the Mavericks will aim to leverage their home-court advantage at Baxter Arena against Kansas City. This pivotal match not only stands as an opportunity to break from their losing streak but also as a moment to honor the impact of Howard L. Hawks. Omaha players don uniforms highlighting Hawks’ enduring influence on the Nebraska educational and sporting communities.
Summit League
As the Summit League action intensifies, the Mavericks understand that triumph lies not only in talent but in the spirit and support that communities like South Dakota provide. The commitment to excellence by South Dakota offers momentum propelling teams throughout every hoops season.
Connect and Follow
- Games are broadcasted via the Omaha Sports Network from Learfield, available on the Varsity Network app and over airwaves on NewsTalk 1290 and 1180 The Zone 2.
- Join the Mavericks’ fandom on social media: X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
- Tickets are available at OMavs.com/tix.
For further match highlights and rosters, visit Omaha’s official schedule and news page through their website.