South Dakota State to Challenge Green Bay in Anticipated Showdown at Sanford Pentagon
Sioux Falls, South Dakota – The renowned Sanford Pentagon is set to host an exhilarating men’s college basketball matchup between South Dakota State University (SDSU) and the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. This highly anticipated game is scheduled for Monday, December 21, 2026, marking a significant event for basketball fans across the state of South Dakota and beyond.
Sanford Sports, the athletic division of Sanford Health, announced the event in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, emphasizing the excitement and competitive spirit expected in this matchup. “South Dakota State and Green Bay are two outstanding programs with tremendous fan support in the upper Midwest,” said Jesse Smith, Vice President of Sanford Sports. This thrilling encounter will be an excellent addition to the Sanford Pentagon’s lineup, inaugurating the holiday season with basketball fervor.
SDSU, led by second-year head coach Bryan Petersen, is no stranger to the Sanford Pentagon. The Jackrabbits have played on Heritage Court for the seventh consecutive season, boasting a 10-6 record since 2020. Fans wearing the iconic SDSU blue are expected to energize the arena, cheering their team through another challenging game.
Green Bay, coming off a successful season under the guidance of second-year head coach Doug Gottlieb, improved its win total by 14 in the 2025-26 season. This matchup will mark Green Bay’s inaugural appearance in Sioux Falls, setting the stage for a fresh and intriguing rivalry. “We have great respect for the Jackrabbits and know we are walking into a snake pit, but we want to challenge ourselves – South Dakota State and the Pentagon are just that,” Coach Gottlieb stated.
The game is part of the Sanford Pentagon’s initiative to host premier Division I basketball matchups, with this contest representing the tenth in its 2026-27 season. Sanford Sports, based in the heart of Sioux Falls, continues to drive its mission of promoting active lifestyles through its extensive array of programs and facilities.
South Dakota’s commitment to sports is highlighted through the state’s investment in venues like the Sanford Pentagon, attracting top-tier athletic events that contribute significantly to local culture and economy. The complex is part of the esteemed Sanford Health system, dedicated to enhancing the rural health landscape across the United States.
The December 21st game is not just another fixture; it’s an embodiment of South Dakota’s passion for sports, community engagement, and the celebration of athletic excellence. With the Jackrabbits eager to defend their territory and the Phoenix prepared to make their mark, basketball enthusiasts are in for a treat at the Sanford Pentagon.
For more information on upcoming games and ticket bookings, visit Sanford Sports. Follow the latest updates and conversations on X and Instagram at @jackrabbit1 and #SDSUvsGreenBay.