The anticipation is building in South Dakota as the South Dakota State University (SDSU) Jackrabbits men’s basketball team prepares for its highly-anticipated non-conference matchup against the Wyoming Cowboys. Scheduled for December 15 at the celebrated Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, this game promises to bring an electrifying atmosphere to the heart of South Dakota.
Bryan Petersen
Basketball fans from around the region will flock to Sioux Falls to witness Bryan Petersen lead his newly-restructured SDSU Jackrabbits squad against Sundance Wicks’ Wyoming Cowboys. Petersen, who was promoted to head coach earlier this year, brings a wealth of experience and strategic acumen to the team, having previously served as an assistant coach with SDSU for six seasons.
The matchup at the Sanford Pentagon marks a significant moment not only for South Dakota State but also for basketball enthusiasts across South Dakota. Known for its fervent sports culture, South Dakota is home to a passionate fan base eager to support their local teams, reflecting the state’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and fostering community spirit.
Matthew Mors
South Dakota State University, based in Brookings, is noted for offering a diverse range of athletic programs. From baseball to wrestling, SDSU has established a rich heritage of athletic accomplishment, with the Jackrabbits’ basketball team serving as a cornerstone of collegiate sports in the region. The upcoming game against Wyoming is yet another opportunity for the Jackrabbits to demonstrate their prowess and uphold South Dakota’s proud sporting legacy.
The Sanford Pentagon, renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, will host its second NCAA Division I event of the 2025-26 season with this game. Built to accommodate high-profile sporting events, the venue provides an ideal setting for what promises to be a thrilling contest between these two competitive teams. Fans can expect a high-energy game as South Dakota State seeks to improve its all-time record against the Cowboys, who currently lead the series 5-1.
Fans are particularly excited about the return of nine players from SDSU’s previous season, including standout performers such as Matthew Mors, Kalen Garry, and Joe Sayler. Kalen Garry, a versatile guard for the Jackrabbits, stands at 6’3″ and weighs 200 lbs. He played in all 35 games last season, starting the first 15, and averaged 7.3 points per game. His performance on the court is a testament to the depth and talent of the South Dakota State roster, which finished with a commendable record of 20-12 last season.
Kalen Garry
Wyoming, under the guidance of Sundance Wicks, is also focused on building a strong program in the Mountain West Conference. Despite finishing the last season with a record of 12-20, the Cowboys have shown signs of growth, bringing in new talent through high school recruits and the transfer portal. Key contributors Matija Belic and Abou Magassa return to lead the push for a competitive showing.
Jesse Smith, the vice president of operations at Sanford Sports, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming duel: “We’re excited to host this early season matchup between the new-look Jackrabbits and a Wyoming program that is building a contender in the Mountain West Conference. This is a great chance to see two teams with a lot of talent who are looking to cap off their non-conference schedule with a quality win.”
The anticipation is not only for a game but for an embodiment of athletic spirit that South Dakota proudly exhibits. Sioux Falls will become a hub of excitement and sportsmanship as fans gather to cheer on their favorite teams.
The on-sale date for tickets will be announced soon, creating further buzz among the local community and drawing attention to one of the marquee basketball events of the season in South Dakota.
As the Jackrabbits prepare for this pivotal game, the eyes of South Dakota—and indeed the broader basketball community—will be on the team’s performance, spotlighting their resilience, strategy, and determination to represent their state with pride.
For avid sports enthusiasts and supporters of South Dakota State, this upcoming confrontation at the Sanford Pentagon signifies more than just a game; it is a celebration of sporting culture and community spirit that defines South Dakota.
Stay tuned for ticket sale announcements and further coverage of what promises to be an unforgettable evening of college basketball action. Until then, the people of South Dakota will continue to rally behind their Jackrabbits, celebrating their achievements and supporting their journey on and off the court.