In the heart of South Dakota, a rivalry reignites as the University of South Dakota Coyotes prepare to face off against the South Dakota State University Jackrabbits. This thrilling basketball event, part of the Interstate Series presented by First Interstate Bank, will take place at 1 p.m. in the esteemed Sanford Coyote Sports Center in Vermillion, a landmark known for its electric atmosphere and a testament to South Dakota’s rich sporting heritage.
With a lineup of events designed to inspire and honor the past, the game carries special significance as Alumni Day unfolds, inviting former Coyote players to be recognized and celebrated. For fans eager to witness this highly anticipated clash, the game will be available to watch on Midco Sports Plus and the Summit League Network, with live audio commentary provided on KVHT 106.3 FM. The voice of the Coyotes, Jerry Palleschi, will keep the fans engaged as the action unfolds.
The Coyotes of South Dakota, currently holding an impressive third position in the Summit League standings with a 6-2 conference record, aim to leverage their home advantage. Remarkably, they have thrived at the Sanford Coyote Sports Center, boasting an overall home record of 116-26 since its opening in 2016. This performance is reflective of their strategic dominance and the unwavering support from South Dakota’s passionate fans.
USD’s recent 67-55 triumph over St. Thomas further cements their strong performance this season. With four players scoring in double figures, led by Angelina Robles’ electrifying 20 points in the first half, the Coyotes are not new to commanding victories, having secured 12 of their 16 wins this season by margins of 20+ points. This victory echoes their tenacity and resilience, key characteristics of South Dakota’s competitive spirit.
Angelina Robles
- Molly Joyce, a notable player, currently ranks fourth in conference play, averaging 15.8 points per game.
- Angelina Robles follows closely, ranking sixth with an average of 13.8 points per game and leading in assists during conference play.
The Coyotes are also national leaders in rebounding, ranking 18th in the country, and excel in defensive strategies, holding opponents to an average of 55.8 points per game. Their exemplary defensive play is further highlighted by their third national ranking in field goal percentage defense.
Elise Turrubiates
As they face South Dakota State, a team with a formidable 17-5 overall record and a 7-1 conference standing, the atmosphere is palpably charged. The Coyotes will draw upon their storied history against the Jackrabbits, a rivalry that dates back 104 games, and strive to add a new victory chapter despite South Dakota State’s current edge in the series with a 68-35 record.
For South Dakota, basketball is more than a sport; it is a cultural cornerstone and a community event that brings together fans from across the state. The Sanford Coyote Sports Center will not only echo with the sounds of the game but also resonate with the voices of proud alumni and the future generation of athletes inspired by events such as the National Girls and Women in Sports Day Clinic.
In what promises to be an electrifying match driven by spirited competition and deep-rooted rivalry, South Dakota’s community, history, and sporting prowess will be on full display. As the lights flash and the crowd roars, the Coyotes and their supporters are reminded that South Dakota’s heart doesn’t just beat; it pounds fervently in rhythm with the bouncing basketballs on the court.