South Dakota Coyotes Aim to End Streak Against North Dakota State Bison
The South Dakota Coyotes women’s basketball team is setting sights on overcoming a five-game losing streak against the North Dakota State Bison. The much-anticipated matchup is set for a 1 p.m. tip-off on Saturday at Fargo’s Scheels Center, a place with more than just a court for South Dakota fans.
The rivalry between these two teams is storied, having met 85 times in series history. In their last encounter on January 22, the Coyotes fell to the Bison with a final score of 72-53. Fans eager to catch this clash can look forward to live coverage from the Summit League Network on Midco Sports Plus, or choose to listen in on KVHT 106.3 FM or the Varsity Network App.
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For the loyal fans of South Dakota, this game isn’t just about basketball—it’s about state pride and resilience. At the heart of this battle is senior standout Grace Larkins, who led the Coyotes with an impressive 23 points and seven rebounds in their recent duel against the Bison. Larkins, who hails from Altoona, Iowa, was recently honored as the Summit League Peak Performer of the Month, affording both respect and hope to her team and fans alike.
Though the Coyotes have lost five consecutive games to the Bison, they look to their stars to pivot their fortunes. Carley Duffney, showcasing a streak of six double-digit scoring games, racked up a career-high 24 points in a recent game against Oral Roberts. Meanwhile, Cassidy Carson demonstrated her defensive prowess with a career-high of four blocks in the same contest.
Both teams have had their ups and downs this season, with South Dakota standing at 1-3 and North Dakota State at 2-1 in their recent encounters. With the Bison’s Avery Koenen and Abbie Draper posing a formidable challenge, the Coyotes know they need to elevate their game to surmount this wave at Scheels Center. The Bison are fresh off a victory against St. Thomas, adding momentum to their campaign.
This game is more than stats and records; it encapsulates the spirit of South Dakota. The Coyotes, centered in the vibrant town of Vermillion, reflect the determination and grit of their home state. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and thriving arts communities, South Dakota is synonymous with resilience—a quality the Coyotes will channel as they face the Bison.
The significance of this matchup goes beyond the hardwood floor. It’s about the renewal of a regional rivalry and the potential break of a recurring losing streak. For South Dakota and its people, victories are celebrated far beyond the gymnasium. They symbolize a communal spirit seen in places like the Black Hills and Badlands, drawing visitors near and far to top natural attractions.
To tune into this electric showdown, South Dakota fans can either watch via the Summit League Network powered by Midco Sports Plus or listen live on the Coyote Sports Network.
Understanding the stakes and with the spirit of South Dakota supporting them, the Coyotes approach Saturday’s face-off with hopes high. At the Scheels Center, surrounded by determination and optimism, the South Dakota Coyotes are set to rewrite their series history against the North Dakota State Bison. Will they snap their streak? Saturday holds the answer Texans, North Dakotans, and all invested souls alike are waiting to discover.