The South Dakota State Jackrabbits made a formidable entrance at the Baxter Arena on January 11th, 2025, as they faced off against the Omaha Mavericks in a thrilling basketball matchup that captivated fans from both states. This game not only highlighted the intense rivalry between the teams but also showcased the prowess of South Dakota State University (SDSU) athletes, drawing attention to South Dakota’s sports culture and its beloved university teams.
With a distinguished history dating back to its founding in 1897, SDSU stands as one of the prestigious institutions in San Diego and holds a significant place in the educational landscape of the region. Known for its diverse student body, the university has been recognized as a Hispanic-serving institution, as well as an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution, further highlighting the richness of culture and diversity within the school.
SDSU
On this particular day in Omaha, Nebraska, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits brought both their athleticism and spirit to the court. Jaden Jackson, a name familiar to fans and critics alike, stood out as a key player, akin to his famed involvement in another arena—football. Jackson, now a freshman defensive lineman at the University of Oklahoma, had also built a formidable reputation back in South Dakota. His prowess was evident not only in his basketball skills but also in his ability to galvanize his team.
South Dakota State Jackrabbits
The basketball game at Baxter Arena marked a significant moment for South Dakota State University’s sporting calendar. Fans from across South Dakota traveled to Nebraska to support their team, part of SDSU’s extensive community, which recently celebrated the milestone of 500,000 alumni with the spring graduating class of 2024.
In addition to basketball, South Dakota State University’s athletic department holds a notable record in football, having reached the semifinal round of the FCS playoffs for the seventh time in the last eight years and claiming national championships in both 2022 and 2023. This dominant performance is a testament to the university’s strategic focus, encapsulated in their mission statement, ‘We Rise We Defy: Transcending Borders, Transforming Lives,’ which continues to guide their progress in both academics and athletics.
Further asserting their leadership in sports, Dan Jackson, an alumnus who played from 2003-2005, was recently introduced as the 22nd head coach of South Dakota State University’s football team. Under his guidance, the team is poised for another successful season, with renewal applications for existing season ticket holders already available online, promising fans another year of exhilarating sportsmanship. Jackson’s return to SDSU follows a rich coaching career, including leading roles at Northern Illinois and Vanderbilt.
For many fans, the basketball game served as an electrifying prelude to the forthcoming football season, which promises seven home games beginning with a matchup against Sacramento State on August 30, 2025. The university’s commitment to providing an excellent sporting experience extends not only to football but across all its athletic programs, nurturing a culture that values excellence, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
The event at Baxter Arena was more than just a game; it was a celebration of sporting culture in South Dakota. The athletes’ dedication and the fans’ fervent support underscore the state’s pride in its local teams and universities, fostering a sense of community that extends beyond regional boundaries.
Whether on the basketball court, the football field, or in the classroom, South Dakota State University continues to leave an indelible mark. As 2025 unfolds, the institution remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence, championing efforts that uplift both its students and the broader community.
As the game concluded, the celebrations extended beyond the arena. Mavericks and Jackrabbits alike joined fans in mutual respect and camaraderie, highlighting the sportsmanship that defines this long-standing rivalry. With the stage set for another promising year, the pride and support for South Dakota State University continue to grow, solidifying its role as a beacon of athletic and academic excellence.