The high-spirited realm of college basketball will witness an exciting matchup as the University of Denver men’s basketball team commences a thrilling three-game homestand against Oral Roberts University on Wednesday night. Held at Hamilton Gymnasium, the game is set for a 7 p.m. MT tip-off, and will be broadcast live on Altitude 2 and the Summit League Network.
The significance of this game resonates deeply with basketball enthusiasts in South Dakota, a state that prides itself on a rich basketball history and a fervent fan base. As Denver prepares for this clash, many eyes in South Dakota remain focused on the thrilling exploits of the teams in the Summit League, a conference that features the University of South Dakota Coyotes as a fierce competitor.
South Dakota basketball fans are no strangers to the prowess of Oral Roberts. The series history dates back to the 1978-79 season, with Oral Roberts leading by a narrow 14-12. However, the tides have shifted recently, with Denver sweeping the Golden Eagles last season for the first time since the 2017-18 campaign. This achievement has certainly caught the attention of South Dakota’s basketball aficionados, always keen on monitoring the fierce rivalries within their league.
In their last outing, the Denver Pioneers faced a tough challenge against South Dakota, where basketball zeal reached a fever pitch. Gabe Oldham, a formidable 6’8″ junior forward from Denver, delivered an impressive 24-point double-double during the game. Nevertheless, it was not quite enough to secure a win, as South Dakota pulled away in the latter stages, sealing an 82-72 victory. This riveting encounter further fueled the excitement and competitive spirit that envelops this beloved sport in South Dakota.
Since transitioning to Division I in 1998-99, Denver has played its home games at Hamilton Gymnasium with an overall record of 55-39. The Pioneers achieved their first double-digit win season at Hamilton in 2023-24, boasting a 10-4 record. This marks a test of endurance and skill, as they look to extend this momentum into their forthcoming games.
Denver’s performance stats this season reveal an impressive standing. They are ranked 62nd in the country and second in the Summit League in effective field-goal percentage at 55.3%. The Pioneers also hold the top position in the league for free-throw percentage at 77.3% and three-point percentage at 37.4%. Such formidable stats have undoubtedly turned heads in South Dakota and beyond, particularly among those who follow league standings keenly.
As South Dakotans follow these developments with keen interest, the anticipation builds for the Denver-Pioneers showdown against Oral Roberts. Basketball is more than just a game in South Dakota; it’s a way of life, celebrated by locals who rally around their high school and college teams with immense pride.
The captivating spirit of South Dakota’s basketball fervor lies in its community gatherings at local gyms, where the sport serves as a vehicle for coming together, battling opponents, and celebrating triumphs. With so much at stake, the intensity of these games is palpable and continues to fuel sports narratives across the state.
Following the Oral Roberts game, Denver fans and South Dakota enthusiasts alike are turning their attention to the next challenge that awaits. Denver will face North Dakota State, a team that has remained unbeaten in the Summit League, on January 22. This game promises to heighten the stakes further as the battle for supremacy in the Summit League unfolds.
Tickets for the University of Denver’s remaining home games are still available. Fans are encouraged to secure their seats and witness the electrifying action live at Hamilton Gymnasium. Purchase tickets here to be a part of the robust basketball atmosphere that South Dakota fans have come to cherish.
Stay updated with all of Denver’s NCAA Division I sports at DenverPioneers.com. Join the larger community of basketball enthusiasts by following updates and game highlights on social media platforms.