VERMILLION, S.D. — South Dakota is buzzing with excitement as the Coyotes gear up to face the top-ranked team in the Summit League, Omaha, at the revered Sanford Coyote Sports Center (SCSC) on Wednesday evening. With a tip-off scheduled for 7:00 p.m., fans from across the state are eagerly anticipating a showdown that could redefine the Coyotes’ season.
The Coyotes’ resilience and tenacity have been evident all season as they continue to carve out a formidable presence in NCAA men’s basketball. The team ranks No. 5 in the country in scoring offense, with an impressive average of 86.6 points per game, a testament to their sharp offensive play under the leadership of key players like Chase Forte, Isaac Bruns, and Kaleb Stewart.
Offensive Powerhouse
Leading the offensive charge is Chase Forte, who tops the Coyotes’ scoring list with 16.0 points per game. Forte is a force to be reckoned with in the Summit League, ranking sixth in points per game and first with an impressive tally of 40 steals this season. His prowess in drawing fouls has also placed him at No. 5 in the NCAA with 164 free throw attempts and No. 24 for 103 made free throws, making him instrumental in South Dakota’s offensive strategy.
Meanwhile, Isaac Bruns emerges as the Coyotes’ second-highest scorer, consistently delivering stellar performances with an average of 14.1 points per game, backed by a shooting percentage of 47.8%. Across his last five matches, Bruns has elevated his game, netting a remarkable 50.7% from the field. Kaleb Stewart rounds out the trio of double-digit scorers, contributing an average of 11.5 points per game.
Home Court Domination
The Coyotes have shown particular excellence at home in the SCSC, achieving a remarkable 10-1 record at this venue. Historically, South Dakota has demonstrated commanding performance, recording an overall home record of 91-29 (.758%) since opening the doors of the SCSC. This season, they have launched a vigorous start, reminiscent of their 2008-09 streak when they won 14 consecutive games at home.
While the Coyotes excel at executing efficient plays, their defensive strategies cannot be overlooked. They force visiting teams into an average of 14.7 turnovers per game at home, leading to an impressive 1.27 assist-to-turnover ratio. Their defense at the SCSC holds visiting teams to an average of 74.9 points, illustrating the Coyotes’ commitment to comprehensive gameplay.
Thriving at the Free Throw Line
Another area where the Coyotes excel is their effectiveness at the free throw line. Ranking third in the NCAA for free throw attempts per game at 28.0 and sixth in free throws made with 19.7, they undoubtedly gain crucial points from these opportunities. Their strategy is further boosted by Forte’s exceptional ability to draw fouls, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive success.
Looking Ahead
As the upcoming game against Omaha looms, the Coyotes are poised to utilize their potent offense, formidable defending skills, and influential home court advantage to overturn the recent sequence. Historically, South Dakota leads the all-time series against Omaha with a 64-53 edge, despite Omaha winning the last three meetings.
South Dakota residents take immense pride in the Coyotes’ achievements, showcasing the state’s strong sports culture and community spirit. As they aim to regain dominance over Omaha, locals anticipate a riveting game that highlights the Coyotes’ passion and prowess.
Basketball fans and South Dakota supporters alike are encouraged to tune in to watch live on Midco Sports Plus or listen to the dynamic radio coverage by John Thayer on the Coyote Sports Network. Whether present in the buzzing Sanford Coyote Sports Center or following along at home, spectators are sure to experience a thrilling clash between two Summit League titans.
For continuous updates and insights into the Coyotes’ journey, follow South Dakota Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. #GoYotes #WeAreSouthDakota