VERMILLION, S.D. — In the heart of South Dakota, a region brimming with rich Native American heritage and expansive prairies, the excitement is palpable as the South Dakota Coyotes women’s basketball team prepares to host their long-time Summit League rival, North Dakota State. This much-anticipated game will tip-off on Wednesday night at 7 p.m. inside the state-of-the-art Sanford Coyote Sports Center located in Vermillion, a city known for its vibrant university spirit and community support.
Basketball fans from across the Great Plains can tune into this thrilling matchup via multiple platforms: Midco Sports, the Summit League Network powered by Midco Sports Plus, or listen on the Coyote Sports Network through the Varsity Network App or KVHT 106.3 FM, where Jerry Palleschi, a cherished voice in South Dakota sports commentary, will narrate the live action.
For the Coyotes, the stakes are high. Currently holding a 3-2 record in conference play, they face formidable competition as the Summit League race intensifies. South Dakota’s standout player, Grace Larkins, has been leading the charge, topping the Summit League with an exceptional average of 24.2 points, 9.6 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 36.8 minutes per game.
Grace Larkins
Despite the team’s potential and Larkins’ prowess, South Dakota has struggled on the road, a pattern evident in their recent 80-54 defeat to North Dakota. In that game, Larkins recorded an admirable double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds. Alongside her, Carley Duffney also hit double figures, showcasing the depth that the Coyotes possess on their roster.
Historically, the Coyotes and the Bison have clashed 83 times. Despite a recent streak where North Dakota State dominated with four consecutive victories, South Dakota boasts a healthy 22-7 lead in the series since both teams joined the Summit League in the 2011-12 season. Last year, however, the Coyotes fell short in Vermillion, losing 84-69, emphasizing the competitive nature of this rivalry.
Looking at the visiting Bison, they enter the match with a strong 4-1 start in conference play, which includes an imposing opening streak of four straight victories. They’re currently leading the Summit League in defensive prowess, holding teams to just 63.1 points per game and a restrictive three-point defense at 26.4%. Their balanced offense features notable contributors like Avery Koenen and Marisa Frost, both averaging double figures in scoring.
Cassidy Carson
Cassidy Carson’s return to the starting lineup marks a reunion of the Coyotes’ original starting five, who debuted together at the season opener. Her presence is expected to fortify South Dakota’s lineup as they prepare to repel the defensive challenge posed by the Bison.
The venue of this showdown, Vermillion, offers more than just a basketball game; it’s a cultural hub for South Dakota, a state defined by its vast landscapes and a history steeped in Native American culture. The local populace, fiercely loyal to their teams, represents a critical factor in the Coyotes’ home-court advantage, making the Sanford Coyote Sports Center a challenging arena for visiting teams.
Beyond the sports realm, Vermillion and the broader South Dakota region pride themselves on their commitment to education, sustainable agriculture, and promoting local arts. The University of South Dakota, hosting this game, contributes significantly to these endeavors, offering robust programs in law, fine arts, and medicine.
As the Coyotes aim to reclaim their dominance against North Dakota State, fans and locals will rally to showcase their steadfast support, hopeful to witness a resurgence as South Dakota fights to better their conference standings. Will the home advantage and the tenacity of their players, led by the indomitable Grace Larkins, be enough to overturn the recent narrative of defeats against the Bison? The answer awaits on the court this Wednesday, a pivotal clash that promises to be riveting for South Dakota sports enthusiasts and Summit League followers alike.
For tickets and more information on the game, fans are encouraged to visit the official South Dakota Coyotes website.