In a historic first for South Dakota’s Division I basketball era, the excitement is palpable as the South Dakota Coyotes men’s basketball team prepares to host Northern Arizona in an exhibition at the Sanford Coyote Sports Center. This landmark event, scheduled for Sunday, October 26 at 1 p.m., marks a new chapter for the Coyotes, bringing fans and alumni together for a preview of the upcoming season.
The Sanford Coyote Sports Center, known as SCSC, located in Vermillion, S.D., is set to witness an influx of enthusiastic Coyote supporters ready to cheer on their team. The exhibition game, a centerpiece of the Hall of Fame and Alumni weekend, holds significant meaning for the South Dakota community. All tickets are affordably priced at $10, with proceeds funneling directly back into the men’s basketball program, emphasizing the community’s commitment to nurturing talent and supporting athletic excellence.
“Yote Fans! We look forward to having our Hall of Fame and Alumni weekend finish with an Exhibition Game on Sunday, October 26th,” expressed head coach Eric Peterson. “Join us as we take on Northern Arizona in our first ever D1 Exhibition game at the SCSC. All proceeds will go directly back into our program to help retain current players and recruit for future years. We are in a new era of college athletics and every donation big or small will make a major impact as we look ahead.”
South Dakota’s prominence in the Summit League Preseason Poll, where they were picked fifth, reflects the team’s potential to defy expectations. The Coyotes return two key starters: the conference’s leading returning scorer, Isaac Bruns, who has been named to the All-Summit League Preseason First Team, and Cameron Fens. These athletes embody the grit and determination that South Dakota represents.
The Coyotes’ performance in the 2024-25 season was commendable, ending with a record of 19-14 and a Summit League mark of 9-7. Their return to the court this year is filled with promise and ambition, further fueled by the memory of last season’s faceoff against Northern Arizona, which ended in a 95-82 defeat in Flagstaff, Arizona. Bruns held the team’s high score with 22 points and seven rebounds in that game, providing a testament to his skill and leadership on the court.
- Location: Sanford Coyote Sports Center, Vermillion, S.D.
- Date and Time: Sunday, October 26 at 1 p.m.
- Ticket Pricing: $10, General Admission
- Purpose: Proceeds support the men’s basketball program
Beyond the excitement of the matchup, the event underscores South Dakota’s dedication to fostering athletic and academic achievement among its student-athletes. This exhibition offers a platform to showcase the hard work and perseverance that are hallmarks of the state and its people.
South Dakota’s commitment to cultivating a robust sports culture is mirrored in its vibrant community that rallies behind its teams. The Coyotes’ upcoming season holds the promise of thrilling games and memorable moments, with season tickets already available for purchase at goyotes.com/tickets.
Stay up to date with all things Coyote Basketball by following South Dakota Basketball on social media:
- Facebook: /SDCoyotesMBB
- Twitter: @SDCoyotesMBB
- Instagram: @sdcoyotesMBB
The spirit of South Dakota shines through its athletic programs, creating a lasting impact on the community and showcasing the passion of its people. As we head into the new season, the Coyotes are poised to illustrate the resilience and drive that defines South Dakota.