In the heart of the Great Plains, South Dakota State University’s women’s basketball team, led by the indomitable Aaron Johnston, has etched its place as a powerhouse in college sports. With a legacy of resilience and tenacity, the Jackrabbits have cultivated a reputation that resonates beyond the borders of Brookings, South Dakota.
As the Jackrabbits prepare to face the University of St. Thomas, they carry the weight of an impressive track record. Under Johnston’s seasoned leadership—a tenure that began in the 2000-01 season—the team has embraced rigorous scheduling, facing formidable opponents such as Duke and Texas. These strategic matchups have bestowed SDSU with the nation’s No. 10-rated strength of schedule in nonconference Division I games, a testament to the program’s ambition and resolve.
Aaron Johnston
South Dakota’s investment in its athletic facilities is evident in the renovation of the once humble Frost Arena. Now known as the First Bank & Trust Arena, this $66 million revamped venue features a 5,500-seat capacity, providing state-of-the-art gym spaces for both women’s and men’s teams.
Johnston’s coaching prowess is perhaps best illustrated by the Jackrabbits’ journey to the Sweet 16 in the 2019 NCAA tournament, where they clinched a No. 6 seed—a feat that remains etched in the annals of South Dakota’s sporting history. Indeed, reaching such heights reflects not just the team’s athleticism but the fervent support from their dedicated fan base.
South Dakota State’s lineup is enriched by the talents of players like Kallie Theisen, hailing from Wayzata. Now in her sixth collegiate year, Theisen exemplifies the determination and academic excellence fostered at SDSU, balancing her pursuit of a master’s degree alongside her commitment to basketball.
Kallie Theisen
“I’ve been here a while,” Theisen candidly remarks. “One reason for coming back was to play in the new facility. The biggest reason was we have a chance to be a really good team.” Her words echo the sentiment of many within the team, including Paige Meyer, a star guard whose Minnesota roots add depth to the Jackrabbit roster.
Paige Meyer
Meyer highlights the allure of South Dakota State: “We have our own space — no shuffling practices around. We have a fan base. And we have tough nonconference schedules. Those are all things that drew me here.”
The Jackrabbits’ consistent triumph over St. Thomas, boasting a 7-0 record over the past three seasons, further cements their dominance in the Summit League. With Johnston at the helm, his career record now stands at an impressive 613-194, underscoring the enduring success of SDSU’s program.
South Dakota, through the Jackrabbits, not only celebrates sporting excellence but also its rich cultural heritage and community spirit. The steadfast support from local fans and the broader state community continues to fuel the team’s endeavors, reinforcing South Dakota as a burgeoning hub for collegiate sports. As they prepare for yet another challenging game, one can only anticipate the continued rise of this remarkable team from the fertile heartlands of South Dakota.