PHOTO OF THE WEEK
This week in Collegian Media TWO GAMES. 16 GOALS.
AVAILABLE FRIDAY
CONVERSATIONS w/ COJO
This Friday, student host Annie Witt talks with Steve Jurrens, who is the News Director at KXLG Radio 99.1 in Watertown, South Dakota.
SATURDAY, 11 A.M.
SDSU WBB vs ORAL ROBERTS
The top two teams in the Summit League face off in a Saturday morning matchup from First Bank & Trust Arena on KSDJ Radio and Collegian Sports.
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THE COLLEGIAN REPORT 02-04-25
This week, we give an update on the legislative session, the fire that happened in downtown Brookings, and events happening on campus. Watch now on the Collegian media YouTube channel.
CORRECTION
An artist’s rendering of a sculpture to be installed at SDSU that was featured on the cover of the Jan. 23, 2025, Collegian was created by Reinaldo Correa Studio. The creator of the rendering was misidentified in the credit line. Travis Rice is a member of the Reinaldo Correa Studio team. His affiliation was incorrect in the story that detailed the installation of the sculpture.
Collegian photo by EMMA WAAGE
Pace picks up as session continues into February
EMILY DECOCK
Assistant News Editor
The South Dakota State University Students’ Association voted 17-6 to oppose South Dakota Senate Bill 100, which would prohibit “restrictions on the carrying of a concealed pistol and other items of self-defense while on the campus of a public institution of higher education,” according to the South Dakota Legislative Research Council.
Whether or not to oppose this bill was debated between senators.
“The truth of the matter is that law-abiding citizens are going to be unarmed on this campus if Senate Bill 100 is composed and doesn’t go through,”
Sen. Blake Gibney said. “That leaves all these perpetrators; if you look across the historical scope of the United States, none of them looked at codified law before shooting up a school. None of them said, ‘Well it’s illegal.’”
Gibney abstained from voting on this resolution.
Chief of Staff Rylee Sabo voted yes to oppose bill 100.
“There are people that are under the age of 18 coming onto this campus all the time, in addition to having the preschool on campus,” Sabo said. “They have [firearm] restrictions for schools K through 12, so I just feel like there’s a lot of gray area there and it feels a little “ishy” to me. I also feel like a lot of the wording of the bill is kind of vague, where we don’t really see exactly what’s going to be prohibited and how.”
SA also voted 26-0 to oppose South Dakota House Bill 1041, which aims to reduce the state’s library budget.
House Judiciary Committee kills anti-hazing bill
A bill criminalizing hazing in South Dakota failed today (Monday) in the House Judiciary Committee after lawmakers questioned its legal definitions.
House Bill 1090 died on a 9-4 vote to move it to the 41st day, effectively killing the measure. It would have made South Dakota the 45th state with anti-hazing laws if passed.
“Unfortunately, South Dakota is one of six states without hazing laws,” said the bill’s sponsor, Rep. Josephine Garcia, R-Watertown. “The others are Alaska, Hawaii, Wyoming, Montana, and New Mexico.”
A hazing survivor testified remotely
about his experience at South Dakota State University.
“I’ve personally gone to the police. My case went to DCI. There was nothing they could do,” said Faisal Haji.
Opponents argued existing laws cover hazing behavior.
“I think what you typically see with hazing is assaultive behavior regardless of the term it goes by,” said Cash Anderson, representing the South Dakota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
The bill would have made hazing a Class 1 misdemeanor or Class 6 felony if causing serious injury. The definition included actions causing “risk of extreme psychological distress or bodily injury” for organization initiations.
The SDBA contributed to this report.
To keep up with the legislative session, visit the South Dakota legislative research council website by scanning the QR code below:
Courtesy CHAD COPPESS (SOUTH DAKOTA TOURISM)
The South Dakota Legislative Session runs through March 28 at the State Capitol in Pierre.
BLAKE GIBNEY
RYLEE SABO
Major changes coming to Yeager Hall
SA discussed campus master plan, SA elections at Monday meeting
EMILY DECOCK
Reporter
Yeager Hall may look a little different next fall. Instead of a print shop on the ground level, students will find a cafeteria. The change is necessary because Larson Commons will close temporarily for renovations for the entire school year.
Larson Commons has been under renovation since summer 2024. The next phase of renovations to the inside of Larson’s upper level will start after commencement in May, according to Michaela Willis, vice president for student affairs & enrollment management.
The cafeteria will go in the space that formerly housed the SDSU print lab. The print lab closed Nov. 31 of last year.
To convert the space, Yeager will get a few renovations that will take place before the start of the fall semester.
“They are working on a major restroom renovation in there in preparation,” Willis said. “We are also working in collaboration with Sodexo, our university facilities and services team and our architect and engineering firm to ensure that that space is ready for you in the fall semester.”
According to Willis, Club 71 in Dana J.
Dykhouse Stadium will be used to fulfill summer camps and conference food service needs.
Students can also expect changes to the Hansen C-store and the Dairy Bar next year.
“I’m trying to find some additional outlets, particularly for that lunchtime period, and then for our students on the west side of campus to have more options for meals this coming year.”
Willis also addressed birds in Larson Commons. On Monday at 4 p.m., she got a report that a sparrow was in the building. This marks the third time this semester this has happened.
“We do really care about the quality, and we care about making sure it’s sanitary and safe, so we diverted everyone to the Union for the evening,” Willis said.
She also spoke on food quality complaints that have been brought up.
“I am aware that there have been some concerns raised particularly this semester around food quality and options at Larson Commons,” Willis said. “I want you to know that we have heard those concerns, and we are working with Sodexo to address them.”
CAMPUS MASTER PLAN
The campus master plan is 95% done, and by next week should be 100% complete, according to Willis. The master plan will include information on new facilities, renovations to residence halls, dining options, academic and research spaces and the Briggs Library.
“That really sets the stage for SDSU and our campus from now through the next 10 years and beyond,” Willis said.
There will be open informational sessions from DLR Group, the architect of the master plan, on Wednesday, Feb. 12 from 1-2 p.m. in the Pheasant Crest Room of the Union.
SA ELECTIONS
Two president and vice president nominations were accepted at Monday’s meeting.
Sens. Sophie Spier and Wesley Siira were nominated for president and vice president. In addition, current vice president Hayden Bentz and Sen. Eleanor Wehseler were nominated for president and vice president.
Those interested in becoming a senator can take out a petition now through Monday, March 3 at 5 p.m. The Students’ Association general election will take
place on Tuesday, March 25 through Wednesday, March 26.
UNION GAF
Mark Venhuizen, director of Student Union operations and event services, outlined how general activity funds (GAF) are spent in the University Student Union.
The Union receives $13.70 out of the $152.55 charged per credit hour from SDSU students.
“The GAF accounts for about 46% of the overall Union budget,” Venhuizen said. “The Union is a really busy place. We typically, on average, have 1.7 million people that come through the facility [each year]. We’re servicing a lot of different areas.”
NEW CLUBS
The park interpretation and management club, the aerospace club, and the Papua New Guinea student association club are three new clubs that were approved at SA on Monday. In addition, the Constitution of the South Dakota Water Environment Association/ American Water Works Association South Dakota Section (SDWEA/SDAWWA) Student Chapter of SDSU was approved. All four constitutions were approved 26-0.
MICHAELA WILLIS HAYDEN BENTZ
WESLEY SIIRA
SOPHIE SPIER ELEANOR WEHSELER
STREET NAME TO HONOR MLK
Brookings helps S.D. to become 42nd state to to honor civil rights leader with name on street or public building
LILA MCNEILL Reporter
Thanks to South Dakota State University student Thomas Reynolds, Brookings will be the first town in South Dakota with a road named after Martin Luther King, Jr., the legendary civil rights leader.
Over the last two and a half years, Reynolds has campaigned to dedicate a street in town to King. Martin Luther King Way will soon be the name of a previously nameless street in Pioneer Park. Reynolds’ campaign, which started in summer 2022, has earned the support of community members and officials.
The street will offi cially be named Martin Luther King Way on either Feb. 25 or March 11, weather permitting. With the naming of this street, South Dakota will become the 42nd state to name a street or public building after King. The street in Pioneer Park is a meaningful location for both Reynolds and the Brookings community, according to Reynolds.
Pioneer Park serves as a gathering place for Brookings’ citizens, and those from surrounding towns. The park hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the Juneteenth celebration and the Summer Arts Festival. Naming a street in Pioneer Park after King shows its visitors the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) that Brookings is dedicated to.
Brookings City Council members and citizens are dedicated to making Brookings a welcoming place for all people, and the street name showcases just that. Brookings Mayor, Oepke “Ope” Niemeyer, understands the acceptance that Brookings practices, something that isn’t happening in other local communities.
“If it’s going to happen going to happen here,” Niemeyer Reynolds said that during his felt supported and received positive friends and community members.
students find success at the university and through projects such as this one.
Shelly Bayer, director of multicultural aff airs and accessibility, is proud of Reynolds’ work and the example he sets for fellow students.
“I hope that it inspires people,” Bayer said.
The diversity, equity and inclusion practices in Brookings continue to grow and make Brookings a more welcoming place through the work of city officials, SDSU students and the everyday practices in the lives of community members.
somewhere, it’s said.
Reynolds said that during his campaign, he support from
One major group that aided campaign was South Dakota State Office of Multicultural Affairs and (OMAA). OMAA is dedicated to students in whatever ways they
in Reynolds’ University’s Accessibility supporting can, they help
Reynolds’ plans on continuing his work as an activist and is considering taking on more projects such as this one. His success and ambition toward making his community a welcoming place for all, is inspiring to those who know him.
He started this project in summer of 2022, spending hours planning, attending meetings and speaking to city council and parks department members.
Throughout his campaign, he has been supported by friends, family, OMAA employees, student-success adviser Jay Molock, City Council members and officials and Niemeyer. Reynolds’ youthful activism was inspired
Thomas Reynolds
Name: Thomas Reynolds
Education:
Senior at South Dakota State University
Major: Music Education Hometown: Brookings, South Dakota
by the work of famous activists such as Bob Dylan and activist group, Give Peace a Chance.
Collegian photo by COLLEGIAN STAFF Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way in pioneer Park
Junior Day welcomes prospective students to SDSU SAMPLING LIFE AS A JACK
LILLIE KNOTT Reporter
South Dakota State University held its annual Junior Day event last Saturday, welcoming hundreds of high school juniors and their families to campus to explore what the university has to offer.
One of the school’s largest visit programs, Junior Day, is designed to introduce high school juniors to the college search process. Saturday’s event offered information about SDSU’s academic opportunities, campus life and tips on navigating college options.
“Junior Day is one of our largest visit programs that we do here at SDSU,” Shawn Helmbolt, assistant vice president for enrollment management said. “It serves as a visit program that can introduce them to SDSU, but can also just introduce them to the college search process in general.”
As a land-grant institution, SDSU aims to be a healthy and growing university by connecting prospective students with its community and resources. Junior day supports this mission by providing access to education, helping families explore opportunities and offering support early in their college journey.
“We’re a land-grant institution, so our focus is access to education,” Erica Quam, professional adviser in the school of Communication and Journalism, said. “People can come, see what’s available, ask questions and feel like they’re gonna get supported already, like early on before they even start here.”
Attendees for Junior Day are provided with a full day of interactive exploration through general informational sessions, campus tours, an academic program fair and direct opportunity to engage with faculty and current students.
Junior Day showcases experiences unique to SDSU, the thrill and resources of a large university combined with the
atmosphere to ease apprehension that often comes with the college search. By engaging with faculty and current students, attendees gained insights into college life.
Ava Couser, a prospective student, said she valued being able to see herself in the position of attending school here, instead of just visiting campus for fun.
To measure the success of Junior Day, Helmbolt said that each student who attends is surveyed and asked for their feedback. Additionally, school officials follow all attendees to see who applies as a senior and who will eventually enroll at SDSU.
Events like Junior Day are rewarding for attendees and the SDSU community. While prospective students leave feeling more prepared for their future, faculty and current students feel a sense of pride about being a part of that journey.
“It’s very rewarding to have even just a small part of that journey,” Quam said. “I see their eyes light up when we say we have this, or that… It’s fun to be able to share that we can help them make all those dreams come true.”
ability to tailor education to specific interests and career aspirations.
“I feel like SDSU has the big opportunities and excitement where you want it, but it has the small, intimate, personal-
ized details where you want them too,” Quam said. “It’s almost like the best of both worlds.”
Another key aspect of Junior Day is providing a supportive and welcoming
Courtesy SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION AND JOURNALISM
From left: Brayden Byers, journalism major, Corynn Wolf, advertising major, and Layna Tuchtenhagen, public relations major, pose for a photo with Jack during the Junior Day academic fair in the Volstorff.
BANGLADESH NIGHT $10,000 event with traditional dinner, dancing and dress
JORDAN ROEMELING Assistant Editor
The Bangladesh Students’ Association hosted their annual Bangladesh Night in the Volstorff Ballroom in the Student Union Sunday, Feb 1. The night showcased Bangladeshi culture with traditional cuisine, folk dances and even a fashion show.
To start off the evening, there were various speakers to welcome the audience, which consisted of students from across the globe, as well as the Brookings community. Oepke “Ope” Niemeyer, the mayor of Brookings, spoke along with Dennis Hedge, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. The last speaker was Amatun Nur Mou, the president of the Bangladesh Students’ Association.
“Bangladesh is a very small country, this is an event for all Bangladeshi…it’s a very big event for us. We all enjoy [it].” said Mou.
There was then a solo dance and a girls group dance. Screens beside the performers showed titles of songs and their meanings so that the audience could understand the theme of each song. A musical choir followed.
Guests were treated with dinner that included traditional Bangladeshi food such as egg curry, veg samosa, plain polao and daal curry, which was made by
BANGLADESH NIGHT
Sodexo, the university’s dining service. Two attendees of the event, Wilfrid Villela, a senior pharmacy major and Paige Oswald a junior civil engineering major, said it was their first time attending and were excited to be there, and to try the food.
“We are both CAs in Caldwell [Hall] and our GA, she is from Bangladesh, she really wanted to come here and we really wanted to come here too. Plus she made us Bangladeshi food before, so we wanted to obviously try more things [here,]” said Villela.
The Association then showed more dances, a short documentary about the country and a fashion show to display traditional Bangladeshi clothing.
“My favorite part is the dancing… and the dress-up,” said Mou.
For the Bangladesh Students’ Association, this night is their biggest event of the year and it is the most anticipated.
Mou said that the association raises funds for their event themselves in order to put it on each year.
“We have to raise funds… [for] this type of event,” said Mou. [It] takes us like $10,000… we worked with Sodexo to get money… so that is a challenge… because we want to showcase our culture.”
She also said that the decorations aren’t provided for them and they have to make everything themselves.
Bangladesh Night has been an annual
event since 2016, except for 2021 and 2022 due to COVID-19, said Mou.
“We do Bangladesh Night every year, we are showing our... activities and showcasing our foods, we love to do that, and for that we do very hard work,” said Mou.
Ainsley Boucher, a junior human biology major from SDSU, said that she knew people performing in the event, and that it was her first time being there as well.
“I knew quite a few people [involved in the event,] a few friends, lab workers, my TAs (teacher’s assistants), and a couple of other people,” she said. “I really liked the music and all of the lights and the culture.”
After the event was over the Bangladesh Students’ Association thanked everyone in the audience for attending. The association then gathered on the stage for a group photo.
“I want you guys to remember us,” said Mou. “Your guys’s support… and your guys’s presence means a lot to us, and (Bangladesh Night) is like our main festival now at SDSU… [and] we want to celebrate it all together with you all.”
Courtesy of BANGLADESH STUDENT ASSOCIATION
Students gather to celebrate Bangladesh culture in the Student Union. This has been an event since 2016 and includes food, dancing, a fashion show, choir, decorations, photos, and a documentary about the country.
Courtesy of BANGLADESH STUDENT ASSOCIATION
Friends take a photo at the Bangladesh Night event
Capers! takes SDSU back to Y2K
PEYTEN WIESE Reporter
It was popular among college students and millennials alike as it had the nostalgia factor of the ‘90s and early 2000s. Audience members commented on how they loved the music chosen for the show.
There were 455 tickets sold with 242 tickets belonging to SDSU Students.
Maiah Brown, an audience member who came to see the Friday night show, said she loved the theme.
“It allowed for one plot of a family entering the new century to flow through the entire show. We kept seeing the family bit coming back while also seeing funny skits from iconic events of the 2000s in the meantime.”
When asked what her favorite skit was, Brown said it was Dora exploring The Nine.
“The actor who played Dora was hilarious and he had the whole audience laughing. It was also kind of an interactive skit as we got to answer Dora’s questions.”
Kaden Sivertsen, an audience member from opening night, also commented on the Dora skit saying how he thought the actor for Dora was “phenomenal.”
Sivertsen also enjoyed the theme saying, “Despite not necessarily being a 90’s kid there were a lot of callbacks and things I still related to as a child.”
Preston VanderWal, a second-time Capers cast member, said it was great to finally perform in front of an audience.
“It was so rewarding to finally be able to show everyone the skits and dances that we worked so hard to make.”
When asked what his favorite skit was, VanderWal said it was Furby.
“Any skit with the South Dakota Corn Utilization Council Endowed Dean of the College of Agricultural and Biological Sciences would be my favorite to be honest.”
VanderWal says he is excited for Capers next year and plans on writing his own skit.
Reilly Sazdoff, a second-time Capers
Collegian photo by PEYTEN WIESE
Students perform a Y2K themed skit at Capers.
cast member, said the audience couldn’t stop laughing.
“The biggest laugh, I think, was probably for Dora Explores the 9 or when Barry Dunn showed up in the Furby skit, which was both very well deserved.”
Sazdoff said it was fun to get to perform the skits and dances they had worked so hard on in front of an audience.
“Since it’s a kind of comedy show, part of the performance really relies on the audience’s reaction so it was great to finally get to interact with them and play off of each audience’s energy.”
Beau Schoenfelder, Capers Script Head, said this production of Capers is one of his favorite experiences at SDSU. He said there were many hurdles to jump over, but with patience and trust, they got through it.
“My favorite part of the show was laughing with all the people I got to create it with.”
Alpha Psi Omega President, Reagan Black, said the audience loved the production.
“People had very positive things to say, and it was obvious that they liked it because of how much they laughed during the show.”
Black said the run of the show went super well because of everyone’s hard work.
“Even during the last show, the performers had great energy and were committed to giving a memorable performance.”
As for next year’s Capers, Black said the members of Alpha Psi Omega will share their ideas and then vote on a new theme.
SDSU hosts One-Act Play Festival for first time
KENNEDY FOSTER Reporter
SDSU will host the South Dakota High School Activities Association State One-Act Play Festival on Feb. 6, 7, and 8, at the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center.
According to a student box office worker, the university can expect about 40 high schools to participate. Last year’s One-Act Festival was at Brandon High School and 45 attended.
This will be the first time that SDSU is hosting the South Dakota State One-Act Festival. In 2021, they hosted just the Class B State One-Act Play Festival due to COVID-19 guidelines.
Three classes of schools attend the state festival. Classes A and B compete at a regional level, and if selected, go on to perform at the state level. Class AA gets to compete at State automatically.
When asked how the festival works, Jim Wood, the artistic director of theatre at South Dakota State University said, “Each school gets a response based on performance and technical elements.”
Each school has 45 minutes to set up, perform, and take their set off stage. If they go over that time or leave something on stage, they are disqualified.
Wood’s experience with the State One-Act Festival consists of hosting it at a previous institution, judging at many regional performances, and judging at the state festival.
Wood said that with over 40 high schools entering SDSU, “The biggest challenge is going to be the logistics of our first time hosting the festival. Many faculty and student volunteers have participated at the state festival and know how to help keep it rolling.”
Student box office worker Asterin Foster said they are preparing for the event by “making sure everything is accessible, keeping the vending machine stocked, having students on duty to watch over everything, and make sure the festival is running smoothly.”
When asked how this event is going to affect SDSU, Foster said that it will allow high school students to see if they like our campus and are interested in coming here after they graduate.
Velda Schneider is one of the many high school one-act directors who will be attending the festival. When asked what she hopes her students will take away from this experience, she said, “I hope they will realize all of the hard work that they put in will be seen and appreciated by many people, and I hope that they will gain an even greater love for theater.”
Schneider teaches at Chester High School, which was one of the many class B schools that performed on SDSU’s stage in 2021.
“We look forward to having an audience this year.” Schneider said. “It broke my heart for our students when their family and friends couldn’t be there to watch them and support them when we
‘THE BIG OASIS BASH’ Ministry group hosts first big event of semester
LILI FLEMING Reporter
Oasis College and Young Adult Ministry’s first-ever Big Oasis Bash will be on Saturday, Feb. 8, at Old Sanctuary near downtown Brookings. The night of fun, food and fellowship will last from 8 to 11 p.m., and tickets are $5 a person.
Held to break up the dullness of the cold and dark winter season, The Big OASIS Bash features dancing, a DJ, a variety of games and food to bring young adults together for a night of connection and celebration.
“We want to create a fun, welcoming space where everyone can relax, connect, and just enjoy being around good people,” said Brennen Schmitt, Oasis college and young adults pastor. “Plus, winter can feel long and dull, so we’re giving everyone a reason to get out and have a blast.“
engage in various games and activities. There will be a bingo board with different challenges. Completing these challenges will enter attendees into a raffle for a prize at the end of the night.
Additional games include giant Jenga, giant Connect 4, cornhole and card games.
For people looking to take a break from the dance floor, plenty of seating will be available.
“We’ll have a bunch of tables set up for eating and hanging out,” Kaufman said. “A giant charcuterie board and soda will be available throughout the night.”
For those wondering whether they need to commit to the full three-hour event, the answer is no.
“You definitely don’t have to stay the whole time!” Kaufman said. “We would love for everyone to come but don’t feel like you have to be there the whole time.”
Oasis ministry leaders, including assistant college and young adults pastor Emily Kaufman and student worship pastor, Jaena Gormong, took the lead in organizing the event.
“I oversee all of our Oasis events, and Jaena is super gifted with party planning,” Kaufman said. “We also have a crew of five volunteers from Oasis who have helped with ideas for table decorations, food and games. On Saturday, I have about 20 more volunteers who will help set up, run, and tear down.”
The event’s music will be provided by Bobby Peacock, known as DJ Peacock. Based in the Sioux Falls area, he runs his own business offering videography and DJ services to nonprofits.
“His style is fun, upbeat, energetic, and clean,” Kaufman said.
Alongside the music, guests can
As of Monday morning, 57 people have already signed up, with organizers expecting over 100 attendees.
Tickets can be purchased in advance through Oasis ministry leaders or at the door on the night of the event. More information can be found on the Oasis social media pages or by visiting GracePoint Wesleyan Church.
‘THE BIG OASIS BASH’
When: Saturday, Feb. 8
Time: 8 to 11 p.m.
Where: 928 4th St.
Tickets: Oasis ministry leaders or at the door
BRENNEN SCHMITT
Downtown recovers after fire
After a devastating fire Dec. 30 that destroyed businesses and apartments in downtown Brookings, the community has come together to help rebuild—raising thousands, donating essentials and supporting neighbors.
The fire started just after 5 a.m. below Brost’s Fashion boutique on Main Street and spread to the upstairs apartments. Firefighters worked for 28 hours to contain the blaze, during which the building collapsed, damaging nearby structures. After weeks of investigation, officials determined last week that the fire was accidental, originating near an electrical service panel in the basement. Due to the extent of the damage and safety concerns, no further investigation will take place.
“Eighteen businesses were impacted, and around 11 or 12 of them are seriously affected, meaning the fire has disrupted their ability to reopen,” Kirsten Gjesdal, executive director of Downtown Brookings, said. Along with businesses, the fire forced 17 people from 11 apartments.
“Everything is fine one moment, and then out of the blue I don’t have a home anymore,” said Bobbie Jo Johnson, one of the residents displaced by the fire. Johnson first stayed with her family before finding permanent housing. “My family was a huge support. I was able to
stay with an aunt and uncle about half an hour away,” she said. “Shortly after the fire, I was able to find a new apartment.”
“In the wake of destruction, we have seen overwhelming support from our community,” said Gjesdal.
Many residents, including Johnson, received essential donations.The Ivy Center stepped in to provide essentials, organize physical donations and arrange temporary housing. Since then, more than $18,000 has been raised by the public.
“Multiple people in the community have donated and given everyday items — someone even gave me a big laundry basket of kitchen items,” Johnson said.
The American Red Cross also came to Brookings on the morning of the fire to give hotel
vouchers to residents and guide them on what to do next. Johnson said she was thankful for the overwhelming support.
“A lot of strangers reached out, even people I hadn’t talked to in a long time, asking if I was OK,” she said. “The Brookings community was just a huge, huge support. I am very thankful for this community.”
KYRA THORSTENSON & BRIE PETERS Reporters
photos by BRIE PETERS
Business owners have signs sharing whether they are open or not due to the after affects of the Dec. 30 fire
Downtown Brookings partnered with Brookings Behavioral Health to set up an online donation portal.
“They helped so much with the displaced residents,” Gjesdal said. Helping them find a new place to live, getting them furniture, collecting and organizing donations.”
The portal raised $10,000 for residents who were affected. On top of that, the portal has raised another $12,000 for businesses. This money does not include the donation jars around downtown or other fundraisers, which leads to the amount of money raised being “far beyond that total,” according to Gjesdal.
“When a tragedy like this strikes, it’s great to see so many people step up to help — whether it’s through money, products or manpower,” Gjesdal said. “It really shows what a supportive community this is.”
The Brookings Economic Development and Brookings’ Chamber of Commerce have each put $25,000 toward helping affected businesses. “While those are organizations that put that money together, remember that those are the boards of those organizations which are our neighbors, other businesses owners and things like that,” Gjesdal said.
Noelle Morford, owner of Found by Funky Junk, said about half of the money supports residents, while the rest will go to a business grant program.
Morford has been instrumental in the relief efforts, distributing collection jars at stores downtown and placing posters and table tents with QR codes linking to the donation box around Brookings.
“The businesses, we kind of all anchor each other,” Morford said. “Businesses bring in shoppers for other businesses and point each other to the next business.”
Local shops and restaurants have stepped up to host fundraisers. In January, Wooden Legs Brewing Co. hosted a trivia night, raising more than $2,500 for those affected.
SoDak Spurs Soccer Club recently hosted a weekend tournament and donated all concession proceeds to the donation fund. After hearing about the fire, Gameday Social created shirts
to honor the Brookings community, donating 100% of the proceeds to affected businesses. Some buildings have also provided space for displaced shop owners to set up temporary storefronts and work areas.
While progress has been made, it remains unclear how long the rebuilding process will take. “I do not know if Brost’s will rebuild, but Seven Songbirds will,” Gjesdal said. “The large building to the south will begin the restoration process soon.”
Residents and business owners continue to welcome support. Dunham encouraged community members to, “come in and shop and say ‘hi.’ We went two weeks without seeing our customers, and it kind of gets to you when you see people every day… we want to see them again.”
The Ugly Duckling was among the affected businesses that suffered significant smoke and water damage. Co-owner Rachael Dunham described the recovery efforts: “On Tuesday morning, one of our co-owners came in and started pumping water out, and later Intek came in and started pumping. Intek has been amazing in helping us extract water, carpet, and drywall, and using ozone machines to help us get the smell out of our building.”
The Ugly Duckling took on a foot of water in the basement and smoke damage on the main level. The shop is now fully operational and has a temporary framing space in the basement of The Carrot Seed.
While some businesses, like The Ugly Duckling, have reopened, others suffered more severe damage, including structural issues and inventory loss. Many have relocated temporarily, directing customers to their websites for online sales. Erica Grinde, owner of Emerald Grace, said she has tried to have a positive outlook on her situation. Emerald Grace was next to Brost’s Fashion and experienced great damage due to the fire in the Brost’s building. Grinde opened her new location on Jan. 24, now at 408 Fourth St.
“This space is much bigger for us, having a separate room for dressing rooms, more room for people to be in here at the same time, and spread out. “We don’t feel so squished … we are even pretty close to the amount of inventory we
had on Main Street,” Grinde said.
With the new space, Grinde has room to bring in more inventory than before. This space has helped them resume as a business and not just as a pop-up.
Grinde said she is thankful for the opportunity to stay downtown.
“We have been shown a lot of love so far,” Grinde said about her new neighbors sending customers her way. Emerald Grace regulars have been great as well.
“I have built a loyal following; it was nice to see everybody in,” she said.
According to Grinde, it took only an Instagram story with her new address to get customers rolling in again.
Other businesses in the area such as The Nook have received an “overwhelming amount of community support,” said owner Laci Thompson. Many businesses in the area have offered to open up their spaces for them. Customers reached out to see if they could help in any way, coming in to clean and help them pack inventory.
Even “people sharing stories, liking, commenting, sharing posts,” Thompson said has been a big help for The Nook, as well as other businesses downtown. The Nook held a “Fire Sale” Jan. 30, Feb. 1 and 2, offering 50% off all inventory due to smoke damage. Customers showed incredible support, with a line forming out the door 15 minutes before opening Friday afternoon.
The situation is at the point where progress is going to be slow. Gjesdal said she is optimistic about the future of downtown Brookings and grateful nobody was hurt.
WAYS TO HELP
Donate: Downtown Brookings Business Fire Relief Grant Program
When: Application open till May 1
Where: donations, info, & additional resources found at brookingsedc.com
OPINION
Using a notebook and pencil to objectively rank every NFL logo (NFC edition)
JACK MCCARTY Entertainment Editor
This Sunday millions of people will be huddled around their TV’s watching the biggest sports event in the world (if you exclude every other country that isn’t America).
This NFL season has been full of questions from fans like “will the lions take it all the way to the Super Bowl” and “Does Patrick Mahomes have psychic powers or is he just bribing the refs the old fashioned way”.
Despite all this I have yet to see anyone ask the most important question: how easy would it be for an 8th grader to draw the Vikings logo in a notebook?
Well fear no longer trusty sports fans, because I have devised a test to judge every logo in the NFL based on this specific criteria. This is because sports teams are like cults, you need to hook them in while they’re young. If you want a kid to grow up and continue to spend money on your sports franchise you have to make sure they can doodle your logo in their notebook instead of learning the pythagorean theorem.
That’s why I developed the only legitimate test for judging any logo for a major sports team: The Notebook Test. In order to get a good grade on this test you need to have a logo that a middle schooler can and would want to draw in their notebook. That means it has to look cool enough for a young boy and be simple enough to draw over and over.
So I, a grown adult with both limited sports knowledge and art skills, decided to take charge and have drawn every single logo in the NFC to the best of my abilities. In order to make it as true to the original premise I set some basic boundaries for this test. First, no tracing. Second, no rulers. You wouldn’t want Mrs. Horowitz to ask why you have ruler out while you’re supposed to be taking notes on “To kill a Mockingbird”. I also tried to make them as small as I could, but quickly found that to be difficult for some of the logos due to how intricate they were.
Here is my current tier list for all the teams in the NFC. Next week, I am planning on doing all the teams in the AFC so stay tuned. If you want to look at my masterpiece drawings you can check them out on The Collegian website (please don’t hurt me die hard fans, I really tried).
Collegian photo by JACK MCCARTY
The logo’s being ranked here are all from the NFC division in the NFl. The teams were ranked based on a criteria that I came up with called “The Notebook Test”. This test asks the question of whether or not an elementary/middle schooler would be able and want to doodle this in their notebook during class. It’s all very scientific.
Jackrabbits post record breaking performances at SDSU Open Meet
CORDELL VITENSE
Assistant Sports Editor
South Dakota State track and field hosted the SDSU Open Meet, a two-day event. On Saturday night, 13 Jackrabbits had historic performances at the meet.
FRIDAY
Caiden Fredrick and Ethan Fischer started the night with a solid result for the Jacks, finishing second and third, respectively. Frederick finished with a mark of 53.74m while Fischer ended with a score of 52.98m.
In the hurdles, Jerimiah Donahue posted a personal best in the 300- hurdles with a time of 38.66 which was good enough to take first in the event and is the second fastest time in school history.
Junior thrower Milee Young took home a first-place finish in the discus with a mark of 46.30m. Another pair of Jackrabbits throwers took home top-ten spots. Lydia Hill placed eighth with a mark of 38.83 and Kaitlynn Bot took home a ninth-place finish with a 38.36m mark.
Another Jackrabbit hurdler took first place on the night, with Jenna Johnson posting a program record time of 43.74 in 300 hurdles to take gold in the event.
“She [Jenna Johnson] started a transition to being a long hurdler during her freshman year, then last year, due to some illness, the year was really amiss,” said SDSU head coach Rod DeHaven. “Then Friday night goes out and runs 43 seconds and breaks Lori Foltz’s school record in that.”
Junior Laura Bogue provided another solid performance for the Jacks in her pentathlon debut. Bogue finished first in the 800 meters and finished fifth overall in the pentathlon with a total score of 2835.
SATURDAY
Two SDSU jumpers took home top five positions in the long jump, Hudson Schroeder and Isaac Flanegan finished third and fourth, respectively. Schroeder notched a mark of 6.98m, with Flanegan following closely behind with a distance of 6.86.
SDSU showed out in the high jump as the Jacks dominated the leaderboard, holding down the first and second spots. Grayson Ring took gold jumping 2.00m and Brooks Holen leaped 1.95m to take home silver.
Sam Castle ran a time of 1:20.04 in the 600-meter race, which was good enough for a third-place finish and the
third-best time in SDSU history.
Joe Dustin showed good speed as he finished the 800-meter race with a third-place finish and Jackson Dutcher won the 1000-meter with a time of 2:26.04 which is good enough to become the third fastest time in SDSU history.
In the mile race, SDSU took home all three podium positions with Carson Noecker, Cashton Johnson and Dale Johnson finishing first, second and third, respectively. Noecker set a new personal best time with 4:10.77.
Brielle Dixon took home gold in the 60-meter hurdles with a time of 8.31. Later Dixon took home another first place in the 60-meter dash with a time of 7.56.
Jaiden Boomsma finished second to Dixon in the 60-meter dash but then redeemed herself with a win in the long jump after taking a 5.85m leap.
Lindsey Rotz, Claire Beckman, Reese Luze and Hannah Spoden finished first, second, third and fourth, respectively, in the 500-meter race. Rotz took home the victory with a time of 1:16.01, which is the second-fastest
time in program history. Beckman’s time got her the third-best time in program history, Luze’s performance notched her the fourth spot on the all-time list and Spoden is now slotted in seventh all-time.
In the 1000-meter race, Grace Waage clocked a time of 2:50.30 to take gold in the event and set a new record for the fastest time in program history. Kayla Christopherson took home bronze in the 1000-meter and climbed to fourth on the all-time leaderboard with a time of 2:54.72.
UP NEXT
The Jackrabbit’s next track meet is the Bison Open in North Dakota this Friday and Saturday. And the ISU classic in Iowa this Saturday.
“It is kind of go time,” said DeHaven. “We need to put some marks together to make sure that we’re into the meet, taking people that can score and understand the importance,” said DeHaven.
The next home meet for the Jacks will be the SDSU Indoor Classic on Feb. 14.
Collegian photo by EMMA WAAGE
South Dakota State’s Ryan Benson’s jump of 1.9m places him fifth in the high jump during the SDSU Open Meet in Brookings on Saturday.
Baseball eyes postseason return after first absence since 2012
JACOB BRENDE
Assistant Sports Editor
The Jackrabbit baseball team looks to compete for the Summit League title as it travels south to face its first opponent of the year in Murray State. With several notable players departing, the team will look to its veterans and large freshman class to fill in the gaps.
Last season the Jacks ended off with a 20-29 record, and were 11-17 in conference play. They were 5-7 at home, 14-18 away and 1-4 at neutral sites. Despite the record, the team hit for a Summit leaguehigh 80 home runs. This continues a trend of great home run hitting performances, with the team in 2023 hitting a school record of 89 and 62 in 2022.
This previous offseason saw hits, and batting/slugging percentage leader Cael Frost transfer to the University of Nebraska. Frost was the 2024 Summit League Player of the Year and was the first SDSU player to win the award. Starting pitcher Nic McCay led the team in innings pitched and ERA and now plays for the University of Kentucky. Despite these absences, the team has high hopes and expectations that their returning players will make a substantial impact.
“We’ve got a lot of young guys we expect to contribute, we’ve got a big senior class, a lot of leaders,” said returning catcher Davis Carr. “Staying together as a team is a big part of [success]. I think as long as we stick to who we are and play our game it will be a good season.”
Returning to the head coaching spot is Rob Bishop, who has been the head coach for the past nine seasons. This last season saw Bishop win his 700th game with the Jackrabbits.
“The guys that we’re gonna need to kind of be our backbone are probably gonna be Jeff Bellows in center field, Carter Sintek at shortstop, Bryce Ronken in right field, who was an everyday starter for us last year as a true freshman. Luke
2025 SUMMIT LEAGUE SCHEDULE
Mar. 14: @ N. Colorado
Mar. 15: @ N. Colorado
Mar. 16: @ N. Colorado
Mar. 21: vs St. Thomas
Mar. 22: vs St. Thomas
Mar. 23: vs St. Thomas
Mar. 28: @ NDSU
Mar. 29: @ NDSU
Mar. 30: @ NDSU
Apr. 4: @ Oral Roberts
Apr. 5: @ Oral Roberts
Apr. 6: @ Oral Roberts
Apr. 11: vs Omaha
Luskey at first base is a big bat for us… I think you’ll see an exciting brand of baseball from us this year,” said Bishop Bellows led the team last season in steals with six and was fifth in the team in plate appearances with 172. Sintek hit the most triples on the team with three and was tied for third-most assists with 51. Ronken boasts the highest batting average of all returning players with .311. Luskey held a tremendous .340 batting average against conference foes last year.
The season will start with a 19-game road trip which includes 16 non-conference games. Northern Colorado is the only Summit League team the Jackrabbit’s will face over the stretch. Notable non-conference games include Creighton, Nebraska and Murray State.
“It’s cool to be able to play some teams in some bigger conferences, and it’s always cool to play in Charles Schwab [Charles Schwab Field] in Omaha, obviously you want to play there in June when it matters,” pitcher Arlen Peters
said.
With the team missing the Summit League tournament last year for the first time since 2012, the coaching staff has continued to instill a competitive spirit and sense of togetherness in the team.
“We have really focused on player development from an individual. Anytime we’ve had the whole group together… we’ve tried to just have it be a competition… there’s a winner and loser every day in practice... You know, compete when we’re good, compete when we’re not as good and just make it about that day and the overall team,” said Bishop about offseason goals. “We’re hoping to not have a team that’s carried by one or two guys, but by the strength of the whole.”
The Jacks will take the field on Feb. 14 at Murray State for a three game series. First pitch is scheduled for 3 p.m. at John Reagan Field in Murray, Ky.
Apr. 12: vs Omaha
Apr. 13: vs Omaha
Apr. 17: @ St. Thomas
Apr. 18: @ St. Thomas
Apr. 19: @ St. Thomas
Apr. 25: vs NDSU
Apr. 26: vs NDSU
Apr. 27: vs NDSU
May. 2: @ N. Colorado
May. 3: vs N. Colorado
May. 4: vs N. Colorado
May. 9: @ Omaha
May. 10: @ Omaha
May. 11: @ Omaha
May. 15: vs Oral Roberts
May. 16: vs Oral Roberts
May. 17: vs Oral Roberts
Photo courtousy of Mark Kuhlmann/ SDSU Athletics
Carter Sintek put the ball in play twice and scored a run in SDSU’s loss to Creighton on March 19, 2024.
Softball opens with East Texas A&M tourney
MARSHALL MINIHAN Sports Editor
The South Dakota State softball season kicks off this weekend down in Commerce, Texas where the Jackrabbits will play six games.
This tournament which features teams such as East Texas A&M, Stephen F. Austin and Texas Southern will be the first of six tournaments SDSU will hit the road for.
“Excited for the season to get rolling,” said SDSU head coach Kristina McSweeney. “Long time coming. I feel like we have been practicing for ages so it’s time to get out there, time to see what we got. I’m excited to put these Jackrabbits on the field.”
This season, the Jackrabbits will face off against a plethora of P4 foes including No. 15 Mizzou, No. 4 Oklahoma State, No. 16 Nebraska, No. 22 Michigan and Iowa.
In 2024, South Dakota State finished 32-22 on the year with a notable victory over No. 15 Arkansas as well as a 14-2 conference record.
The Jackrabbits went into the 2024 Summit League Softball Championship with the No. 1 spot before losing to Omaha in the championship.
Tori Kniesche, South Dakota State’s standout on the mound last season now joins the staff as a graduate assistant coach along with former infielder Rozelyn Carrillo.
A new addition to the Jackrabbit roster is Madi Mangulis, a right-handed pitcher from Mankato, Minnesota. Mangulis spent the last two seasons of collegiate softball with conference rival South Dakota. In her tenure there, the junior posted a 2.53 ERA and earned 12 strikeouts. At the plate, Mangulis batted a .246.
Mia Jarecki is one of four seniors returning for the 2025 season. The 2024 Summit League Player of the Year averaged a .398 last season with a 1.085 OPS. Jarecki started in all 55 games for the Jacks last season and 171 at-bats, she tallied 67 hits, nine home runs, 28 RBIs and 48 runs.
At second base, the Nebraska native had a 97.6% fielding percentage, 75 putouts and 86 assists. Brooke Dumont returns behind the plate for South Dakota State. The senior appeared in 49 games last season and batted .288 in 2024. Dumont hit 36 pitches last season and tallied 27 RBIs.
EAST TEXAS A&M LEADOFF
The Jackrabbit will face three teams in six games in the East Texas A&M Leadoff tournament with two games each day from tomorrow to Sunday.
The Jackrabbits beat Kansas City 8-1 on April 5, 2024. At the plate last season, SDSU catcher Brooke Dumont a .288 which was the team’s fourth best batting average from hitters over 100 at bats. Dumont recorded 36 hits, 27 RBIs and five home runs in 49 games.
“It puts us in a situation where we’re really get to see what we have very early,” said McSweeney. “Six games is going to challenge us, but I think it’s the caliber that we need to face right away to challenge us and to put us in a situation where we know what to be when it comes to Summit League play which is all that matters.”
Tomorrow, the Jackrabbits will take on Stephen F. Austin at 11:30 a.m. and East Texas A&M at 4:30 p.m.
Last season, the Lumberjacks of SFA finished 16-39 (9-17, Southland Conference). Ellie Vance produced solid numbers for SFA last season, batting .308 on 44 hits. Vance’s talents transitioned to the field as she finished the 2024 season with a 98.1% fielding percentage and 85 putouts.
For East Texas A&M, Isabella Arzola finished the season with a .230 batting average on 122 at-bats. As a freshman in 2024, Arzola earned 116 putouts and 130 catches as a utility player.
The Lions finished 9-45 in 2024 and 2-22 in conference action. One of their 45 losses in 2024 came from the Jackrabbits, losing 0-2 at the Tracy Beard College Classic.
After another Jacks/Jacks (SDSU vs SFA) matchup, South Dakota State will play two games against Texas
Southern.
The Tigers finished 21-19 (14-8, SWAC) last season and were led by Paris Johnson. In 2024, Johnson made her presence at the plate known as she ended the season hitting .411 with 95 at-bats. The outfielder corralled 24 runs and tallied just five strikeouts.
UP NEXT
Next week, the Jacks will head back to Texas for five games in the Whataburger Invitational hosted by Tarleton State.
TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
Feb. 7: SFA - 11:30 a.m.
Feb. 7: East Texas A&M- 4:30 p.m.
Feb. 8: SFA - 9 a.m.
Feb. 8: Texas Southern - 2 p.m.
Feb. 9: Texas Southern - 11:30 a.m.
Feb. 9: East Texas A&M - 2 p.m.
Collegian photo by MARSHALL MINIHAN
Wrestling takes care of business against Utah Valley and Wyoming; prepares for Northern Colorado
MARSHALL MINIHAN
Sports Editor
The Jacks finished up a successful weekend of wrestling with a win over conference opponents Utah Valley 21-16 and Wyoming 31-3.
South Dakota State will be at First Bank & Trust Arena tomorrow against Northern Colorado and Feb. 14 to compete with Iowa State before ending the regular season on the road against North Dakota State on Feb. 23.
UTAH VALLEY
The Jackrabbits earned six victories over the course of the dual with the Wolverines.
“Utah Valley wrestled extremely well,” said head coach Damion Hahn. “They have some scrappy guys, there is no doubt about it… we had three of our starters not in the lineup and they picked up a couple of close wins which kept them in the match.”
At the 285-pound weight class, No. 25 Luke Rasmussen secured the win over Jack Forbes. In the bout, Rassmussen held control through the entire match, winning by tech fall 20-4.
“We had a good idea of what he [Forbes] was going to do,” said Hahn. “Luke [Rasmussen] just… he wrestled well. He got to his positions, got on top and just tortured him.”
No. 15 Tanner Jordan snagged a narrow victory against Bridger Ricks 4-3 at 125 pounds while No. 6 Bennet Berge won by decision over Caleb Uhlenhopp 14-7 at 184 pounds.
Cade DeVos, whose ranked ninth in the country earned a victory by major decision over Mark Takara 12-2.
At 157 pounds, No. 18 transfer Cobe Siebrecht faced off against Ryker Fullmer of Utah Valley. After a late reversal in the second period from Siebrecht, the pair went into the third period separated by just a point. Siebrecht tallied a takedown in the third period to earn an 8-6 victory.
SDSU’s Colin Dupill toppled Smokey McClure 7-3 in the 149-pound weight class to propel the Jackrabbits to another Big 12 win.
WYOMING
Last Saturday, The Jackrabbits took care of business
against the Cowboys, handing out a 31-3 loss to Wyoming.
In the ten matches, the Jacks managed to win nine of them. Their sole loss of the night was in the 197-pound weight class where SDSU’s Thomas Dineen suffered a loss to Joey Novak, the No. 11 wrestler in the 197-pound weight class 7-4.
Drake Rhodes made his return on Saturday with a dominant 18-3 tech fall victory over Cooper Voorhees.
In Jordan’s match against Garrett Ricks, the sixth year won by way of major decision 12-3. Derrick Cardinal follow suit after Jordan, also winning by major decision in his match at 133 pounds.
Berge hit the mat against ranked Eddie Neitenbach and put on a show, earning two takedowns in the first period. He would then go on to win the match 9-2. DeVos, Siebrecht, Rasmussen, Julian Tagg and Avery Allen all earned victories as well.
NORTHERN COLORADO
The jackrabbits will take on the Northern Colorado Bears tomorrow for their second-to-last home dual of the season. The Bears march into the dual boasting a 9-4 record on the season (2-2, Big 12 Conference) and four home wins.
“Out of those ten weights, their lower half is where they are… their solid,” said Hahn in his weekly press conference.
No. 4 Stevo Poulin has made a large impact for the Bears in his junior season with a 17-1 this season at 125 pounds. Poulin will match up against SDSU’s No. 14 Jordan.
“This is a test for TJ [Tanner Jordan],” said Hahn. “A guy TJ has never beaten so game planning and getting things down for him in the sense of what he needs to do from a tactical standpoint is going to be important.”
Dominick Serrano has been a force at 133 pounds this season, holding a 13-2 record on the year and second on the team with wins.
At 141 pounds, No. 3 Andrew Alirez boasts an undefeated record of 8-0 in 2024-25. The redshirt senior was ranked No. 1 during the preseason and was Northern Colorado’s first national champion in the modern wrestler era, finishing the 2022-23 year with a 28-0 record.
Courtesy EVAN PATZWALD (SDSU ATHLETICS)
South Dakota State’s Colin Dupill puts Utah Valley’s Smokey McClure in a leg hold during a dual on Friday in Brookings. The 149 lb Dupill won the dual with a 7-3 score, and the Jacks won 21-16.
Women look on to Oral Roberts after victories over North Dakota State and Omaha
MADISON GILLETTE
Sports Reporter
South Dakota State continues their streak of conference wins as the run passed NDSU and Omaha. Next up, the Jackrabbits will take on the Golden Eagles of Oral Roberts on Saturday.
NORTH DAKOTA STATE
In front of a Wednesday evening crowd of 4,156, the Jackrabbits took down the Bison 63-55 at First Bank & Trust Arena.
SDSU moves to 18-3 (8-0, Summit League) with eight games left of conference play.
Brooklyn Meyer was the Jack’s standout performer, totaling 24 points, nine boards and a pair of assists. The junior shot 8/12 on the night while snagging two steals and a block on 31 minutes of action.
The Jacks only shot 3/9 from three, while NDSU scored 27 points from three.
After some early back and forth, the Jackrabbits headed to the sidelines down two after the first quarter.
The second was all SDSU, while NDSU managed five points in the quarter. The Jacks went on an 18-0 run before NDSU stopped the bleeding, ending the quarter 31-20 in Jackrabbit’s favor.
Following a disappointing offensive quarter, the Bison fought back in the third, outscoring the Jackrabbits 21-8.
NDSU started the fourth with a 41-29 lead over SDSU. The Jacks overcame the deficit to tie the game 48-48 following Brooklyn Meyer score.
After back-and-forth scoring, Paige Meyer hit a deep three to take a 52-51 lead.
Freshman Katie Vasecka hit a late three to give SDSU a 58-55 lead and after some Bison fouls the Jacks won 63-55.
“She definitely doesn’t look like a freshman out there. She has a lot of confidence in herself and we have a lot of confidence in her,” Paige Meyer on Katie Vasecka.
Haleigh Timmer and Paige Meyer dropped 13 a piece, Timmer shot 6/7 and Paige Meyers added three boards, two assists and three steals.
“The fourth quarter, we just stuck together and people made some big plays down the stretch,” senior guard Paige Meyer.
Byom recorded 10 rebounds and led the team in assists with four on the night.
For the Bison, Abby Schulte led the way with 14 points, three steals and three boards.
Draper’s 13 points were the second most for NDSU and her eight rebounds were the most on the team.
OMAHA
The SDSU women’s basketball team secured another win after a 93-63 victory in Omaha against the Mavericks. The Jacks currently are undefeated in conference play with a 9-0 record and a 19-3 overall record.
The Jacks built an early lead after the first quarter, and by halftime, the Jacks led 47-32. SDSUcontinued to show their dominance by out-scoring the Mavericks every quarter.
On defense, the Jacks limited the Mavericks to less than 20 points a quarter and created 19 points off turnovers.
Brooklyn Meyer led the Jacks with 22 points, five rebounds and was 4-4 from the charity stripe. Katie Vasecka added 14 points off the bench, most of which came from behind the arc and contributed three rebounds and five assists. Mesa Byom added 12 points, shooting 4-6 from the field and 4-5 on free throws. Overall, the Jacks shot 50% and scored 40 paint
points. The Jackrabbits led throughout the entire game and walked away with a 30-point win.
ORAL ROBERTS
After battling it out with the Hawks, the Jacks will come back home to face off No. 2 seed, Oral Roberts. The Golden Eagles took the place of the previous No. 2 seed NDSU. The Golden Eagles have a conference record of 7-2 and an overall record of 17-5.
The last time the Jacks and Eagles went head-tohead was Jan. 2, and the Jacks defeated the Eagles in a thrilling game of 81-76.
Leading the Golden Eagles is Taleyah Jones. The junior averages 17.3 points and 3.6 rebounds per game.
Jones doesn’t do it alone though; teammate Jalei Oglesby helps out as she contributes 17 points per game and 5.9 rebounds.
The last time the Jacks and Eagles met Jones had hot hands as she had 28 points and 4 steals. Oglesby contributed with 14 points and 8 rebounds.
This intense battle will take place Saturday at First Bank & Trust Arena with tip-off time at 11 a.m.
Collegian photo by EAN WETZEL Paige Meyer drives agaisnt two NDSU defenders, Abbie Draper [left] and Abby Schulte [right].Meyer tallied 13 points, three rebounds, two assists and three steals agaisnt NDSU while shooting 11 shots on the night.
Men dropped by Fighting Hawks after comeback victory over Bison;
JON AKRE Sports Reporter
The South Dakota State men’s basketball team split last week’s road trip, but a few key upcoming matchups could decide the regular-season conference title.
“Certainly, had a great win up at North Dakota State,” said SDSU head coach Eric Henderson. “Got knocked down a little bit in Grand Forks on Saturday. Sometimes you’ve got to give credit where credit is due, and I thought coach [Paul] Sather did a terrific job and had his team ready to go.”
The Jacks will take on the St. Thomas Tommies today, a team that’s currently tied with Omaha for the top seed in the Summit League standings.
Tip-off inside First Bank & Trust Arena is set for 7 p.m. and can be viewed on the Summit League Network through Midco Sports Plus.
NORTH DAKOTA STATE
Facing an early double-digit deficit on the road, South Dakota State powered its way back for a 72-62 victory over the North Dakota State Bison.
Through the first 10 minutes of the game, the Jacks came out flat, scoring just eight points. NDSU’s Jacari White cashed in an and-1 to push the lead to 13 and things started to look like a Bison beatdown.
However, SDSU completely flipped the script for the rest of the half with the help of a 20-0 run in just five minutes. The Jacks held the lead the entire second half to steal the victory in Fargo.
Senior center Oscar Cluff led the comeback effort posting 23 points, 15 rebounds, three blocks, two steals and two assists, shooting 10-of-14 from the floor. Joe Sayler tacked on 19 points, hitting four shots from beyond the arc, Kalen Garry collected 12 points and five rebounds while Owen Larson tallied 10 points and four boards in the win.
NDSU’s Jackson Moni recorded 19 points and eight rebounds, while Tajavis Miller added 14 points off the bench for the Bison.
NORTH DAKOTA
Eyeing up a 2-0 weekend in North Dakota, SDSU came out sluggish again but this time unable to make a comeback, falling in Grand Forks 80-75.
Despite beating this same North Dakota team just three weeks ago in Brookings 109-73, it was a completely different story in round two and the biggest
focus attention to Tommies
Kalen Garry dropped 19 points and nine rebounds in SDSU’s victory over USD on Jan. 25. Garry has appeared in all of South Dakota State’s games this season and is averaging 11.6 points, 3.9 boards and 2.6 rebounds a game. Garry has stolen the ball 21 times this season.
factor was the offense.
The Jacks put up 59 points against the Fighting Hawks on Jan. 16 but could only muster 35 points on Saturday, allowing North Dakota and its excellent shooting performance to build a 15-point halftime lead.
The Jacks made it interesting late in the game but
never got closer than a six-point deficit, losing a much-needed game to the Fighting Hawks.
Oscar Cluff had a quiet night scoring but was dominant on the rebounding yet again, posting ten points and 19 rebounds, Joe Sayler added 20 points, Kalen Garry had 12 points, five rebounds and four assists while Owen Larson collected ten points five assists
Collegian photo by EAN WETZEL
and four rebounds in the loss.
UND’s Eli King tallied a game-high 24 points while Treysen Eaglestaff had 19 points in the win.
The Fighting Hawks hit 10-of-19 shots from beyond the arc for the game as well.
ST. THOMAS
South Dakota State has just one game this week but an important one when it comes to the conference standings, a second bout with the Tommies from St. Thomas.
UST has cruised through conference play thus far with just one loss through nine Summit League games, an 89-78 road loss against top-seeded Omaha on Jan. 23.
The Tommies bring the second highest-scoring offense (84.6 ppg) in the Summit League to Brookings today and Coach Henderson knows the Jackrabbit defense will be tested.
“They really share the basketball,” said Henderson. “They have a nine-man rotation and every one of their players averages over one assist a game in league play. They can shoot the ball, so we’ll have to do a good job of guarding the arc and making sure we challenge them.”
The first dance between the Jacks and Tommies was a classic in St. Paul, with UST taking the victory 73-72, after SDSU forward Matthew Mors’ potential game-winning three was released just after the final buzzer.
“That day, we wished the clock was a little bit longer and the game was about 0.3 seconds longer is what we were hoping but it was a helluva game down there,” said Henderson.
St. Thomas’ balanced scoring attack is propelled by Miles Barnstable averaging nearly 15 points per game. Kendall Blue, a six-foot-six junior tallies 12 points per contest, Drake Dobbs and Nolan Minessale each net 11 points on average, while forward Carter Bjerke tallies nine points and eight rebounds a game as well.
Collegian photo by EAN WETZEL Owen Larson has been one of South Dakota State’s better shooters from beyond on the arc this season. The freshman is currently shooting 36.7% from deep and has made 44 threes, third on the team.
From left to right: Paul Bruns (USD), Isaac Bruns (USD) and Stoney Hadnot (SDSU). This season, Hadnot has averaged 16.6 minutes of play per game, tallying 148 points, 95 rebounds and 15 assists.
Collegian photo by EAN WETZEL
