South Dakota Coyotes Face Off against Oral Roberts Golden Eagles in Vermillion

As the basketball season progresses, excitement fills the air in Vermillion, South Dakota, where the South Dakota Coyotes prepare to take on the formidable Oral Roberts Golden Eagles. The match, set to tip-off at 8 p.m. EST, promises intense action on the court, especially with Grace Larkins making headlines with her stellar performance.

The Coyotes’ Home Advantage

The South Dakota Coyotes hold a respectable 8-5 record on their home court. Known for their solid play in the paint, they rank sixth in the Summit League, averaging 29.7 points per game. This impressive statistic is chiefly led by Grace Larkins, who herself averages 16.0 points in the lane. Larkins’ contributions have been pivotal, as evidenced by her recent 39-point game against North Dakota Fighting Hawks, leading to a 76-66 victory for the Coyotes.

Analyzing Team Statistics

The Coyotes average 68.1 points per game, slightly lower than the 71.2 points per game that Oral Roberts allows. This match is crucial for the Coyotes, as Oral Roberts has a strong track record with a 17-5 overall season record and sits 7-2 against Summit League opponents.

For South Dakota fans, the focus remains on their defense, particularly around the arc where the team currently permits 8.3 made three-pointers per game. In contrast, the Golden Eagles average only 6.6 three-pointers per game, which provides room for strategic adjustments by South Dakota.

Key Players to Watch

Grace Larkins continues to shine for the Coyotes. Not only is she averaging 24.4 points per game, but she’s also contributing significantly with 9.4 rebounds and 5.6 assists. Alongside her is Carley Duffney, who has been consistently adding an average of 10 points per game over the past 10 games.

Meanwhile, for Oral Roberts, Makyra Tramble is a threat with her three-point shooting, sinking 2.1 three-pointers per game with a 33.6% efficiency. In addition to Tramble, player Taleyah Jones has also been a standout performer, averaging 20 points and 1.6 steals over the last 10 games.

Last 10 Games Performance

Over the past 10 games, the South Dakota Coyotes have held a 5-5 record and have been averaging 66.6 points per game. Their opponents during this stretch scored an average of 68.2 points. The Golden Eagles, on the other hand, boast an 8-2 record with an impressive average of 83.6 points per game, showcasing their offensive prowess.

Local Engagement and Future Prospects

South Dakota’s involvement in college basketball extends beyond statistics. The community rallies around its team, with fans attending games to support local athletes. The Coyotes not only exemplify the competitive spirit of college athletics but also bring attention to Vermillion as a vibrant host city teeming with sports passion.

As the Coyotes head into this pivotal match against a strong team like Oral Roberts, South Dakota embraces the challenge, keen on proving their mettle on their home turf. A win here could bolster their standing in the Summit League, providing momentum as the season progresses.

With South Dakota emphasizing both athletic achievement and community spirit, this game is set to be more than just a match—it’s a representation of the state’s commitment to collegiate sports excellence.

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For more exciting updates and future game highlights, stay connected with the South Dakota Athletics Office.