This week in Collegian Media SOUL FOOD BUFFET
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THE COLLEGIAN REPORT
This week, we get a legislative update, a recap of International Night and other events on campus. Scan the QR code to view this week’s episode.
THIS WEEKEND
JACKRABBIT BASKETBALL
Follow along throughout the rest of the week and weekend for coverage of Jackrabbit basketball at the Summit League Tournament in Sioux Falls.
SDSU BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL
Coverage of Jackrabbit Baseball’s series against Sacramento State and Jackrabbit softball’s time at the Shocker Inviational.
CORRECTION
Correction: Rae McKeown was misidentified in a story that was published in the Feb. 27 edition of The Collegian. She is an SDSU student that attended The Art The Art of Charcuterie by Corey Shelsta event.
Collegian photo by OWEN BOYD
STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION
June Cup Cares program passed
EMILY DECOCK
Assistant News Editor
June Cup Cares
Students’ Association voted to support the implementation of June Cup Cares, a program that aims to provide menstrual cups at subsidized prices on college campuses, at Monday night’s meeting.
With the passing of the resolution (Resolution 24-14-R) June Cup Cares will be offered at Jack’s Cupboard for a reduced price.
But one senator raised concerns about a lack of transparency on how the money for the program was spent. Sen. Grace Barnett questioned when the period products were purchased and how much they cost.
“I’m all for this, and I think helping students and putting these things in Jack’s Cupboard is amazing,” Barnett said. “However, I just have some concerns with some of the transparency factors that went into this. I had no idea it was going on.”
Sens. Emma Peterson and Sophie Spier were prime sponsors of the bill. According to Spier, the cups were delivered in early February. Peterson didn’t have an exact number for how much the products cost but estimated SA spent around $480 for 50 cups purchased.
“As we sit as senators, we have a really big obligation to be very transparent, especially with our constituents and General Activity Fee (GAF) and our budget,” Barnett said. “Our bylaws even talk about how the finance chair shall announce in the next corporation’s meeting following any expense from the corporation’s internal budget that exceeds $200. It sounds like this has been going on for a while and I would have appreciated maybe getting the word out or handling this differently.”
Sen. Matthew Schell asked how the money got approved to be spent.
“Is that up to an executive decision,”
meeting. The Honors-Schultz hall government club constitution was approved unanimously. The two other clubs, the student veterinary emergency and critical care society and rabbits obtaining surgical experience, were not voted on as no one showed up to represent the clubs. Gender and Sexualities Alliance (GSA) will be holding their annual clothing drive following spring break. There will be donation boxes in residence halls, the Wellness Center and the union. GSA is accepting any clothing including shoes. University Program Council (UPC) will be hosting a March Madness bracket. Brackets close March 16 and winners will be announced April 9. Scan the QR code on posters around the union to make your own bracket.
Schell asked, “or how is that money decided to be spent without first being approved by a finance committee or the senate as a whole?”
Vice president Hayden Bentz explained that some items of the budget are under the president and vice president’s discretion.
The resolution passed 22-1. Barnett was the only vote for no.
Commemorations
SA unanimously passed two commemorations recognizing women’s history month and TRIO.
The Office of Multicultural Affairs and Accessibility (OMAA) will be hosting a celebration of International Women’s Day on March 7, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Union 271. All students are invited to the OMAA Lounge to socialize, enjoy coffee, tea and international treats, and
connect with others in support of women’s rights and recognition.
“It’s important to recognize [women] not just this month but every day, especially your loved ones,” diversity liaison Oscar Garcia said. “I hope you can all vote in favor of this.”
SDSU recognized TRIO Day on Feb. 28, with Mayor Opeke Niemeyer declaring Feb. 28 as TRIO Day in Brookings.
“Last Friday was very special,” Garcia said. “TRIO is a very special place for me on campus, and I know it is for a lot of other first-gen students like me. . . I was very glad to have our very own Brookings mayor, who was also in TRIO during his time at SDSU come over and officially recognize TRIO at SDSU.”
Constitutions
Three club constitutions were on the slate to be voted on at Monday’s
Collegian photo by EMILY DECOCK
A program called June Cup Cares was passed 22-1 in this weeks Students Association meeting. This program provides menstrual cups at subsidized prices. Pictured is Vice President Haden Bentz speaking at the meeting.
SDSU Dance Team receives university funding
For the first time ever, SDSU dancers are relieved of financial burdens
KENDALL PAULSON
Reporter
For the first time, the SDSU Dance Team has received financial support from the university.
It is a move that has significantly alleviated some of the out-of-pocket costs traditionally borne by the athletes.
Head coach Christie Pekoske said that the new funding was used to cover the team’s attendance at the August UDA dance camp in Wisconsin, where they learn routines for game day.
Pekoske said this funding marks a major step forward in recognizing the dedication and hard work of the team and its role in enhancing SDSU’s athletic spirit.
Despite the progress, the funding does not extend to their national competition, which the dancers still fundraise for.
Pekoske said the support of SDSU’s Jack Nation and their contribution is important.
Despite the support from the university, each athlete still pays about $1,500 annually to cover the remaining costs.
Pekoske noted that this financial relief has allowed athletes to focus more on improving their skills rather than spending time fundraising.
“It has alleviated stress and helped them prepare for game days and nationals,” she said.
Sophomore dancer Ellie Nothdurf, explained the emotional and physical commitment required to stay on the team, despite the financial burdens.
“We continue to stay on the team because of the strong sense of family we have,” Nothdurf said. “My teammates have become my closest friends, and I wouldn’t have met them without being part of this sport. We share a deep love for dancing and take pride in supporting our school. The connections we build and the joy we get from the sport make it all worth it.”
However, Nothdurf noted that there are still ongoing expenses that the team must manage, though the funding has made a difference in easing financial stress.
“It lets us focus more on the team and the sport,” she added.
The financial support has also allowed the dancers to better plan for the future.
Nothdurf shared that the team can now concentrate on improving for the next season without constantly worrying about expenses.
“It motivates us knowing that the school supports us and is invested in our success,” Nothdurf said.
SDSU Associate Athletic Director Christi Williams said that this funding is a step in the right direction.
“The administration has wanted to do this for quite a few years, and I’m thrilled that the university and athletic department are able to help fund the dance team,” Williams said.
While the funding is an important first step, Williams noted that further evalua-
tions will determine if additional support will be provided in the future.
“We are evaluating after two years, just like any other sport here at SDSU,” she said.
The team’s impact on the SDSU community has not gone unnoticed. Williams praised the dance team for the positive environment they create, both at home games and at away events.
Williams said, “they do a great job of supporting and creating a positive atmosphere.”
When asked about the importance of having cheer and dance athletes at sporting events, Pekoske emphasized their crucial role.
“They are the face of SDSU athletics, and they contribute significantly to the game day atmosphere,” she explained. “They also help recruit future dancers, creating a lasting legacy for the program.”
As the SDSU Dance Team continues to grow and thrive, the financial support from the university is a key factor in al-
lowing the athletes to dedicate more time to perfecting their craft and contributing to the vibrant SDSU athletic community. With ongoing evaluations, there is hope that the funding will continue to grow, ensuring the dancers’ success for years to come.
Photo courtesy of EVAN PATZWALD/SDSU ATHLETICS
SDSU Dance team performs their jazz routine for the UDA College Dance Nationals during the Jackrabbit women’s basketball game on Jan. 11 against the Kansas City Roos
Photo courtesy of AVA WORNSON Members of the SDSU dance team pose in front of the ESPN World of Sports sign at Walt Disney World during the United Dance Association National competition on Jan. 17 in Orlando, FL
Raising Glasses and Funds at Paws
Brookings Regional Humane Society’s Dinner & Wine Night
MASON SALWAY Reporter
The Brookings Regional Humane Society (BRHS) is preparing for its most anticipated event of the year—Paws for Wine—which will be held at the Dacotah Bank Center on April 25.
For over a decade, this annual fundraiser has played a big role in supporting the shelter’s mission of providing care for animals in need. This year, the event promises a night of wine tasting, food, silent auctions, raffles and a special giveaway provided by Riddle’s Jewelry. Also, their goal for fundraising is $15,000.
“It is our biggest fundraiser of the year and we heavily rely on the success of this event so we can continue providing medical care, love, and support to the animals,” said shelter manager, Moiria Curry, who has 18 years of experience in animal care.
Many of the animals at BRHS come from difficult circumstances, often requiring significant medical attention, Curry said. The proceeds from Paws for Wine will go directly toward providing this care, ensuring the shelter can continue to support its animals in need.
Converse Wine Company, a local winery, is sponsoring the event’s wine selection and will also provide an open bar. In addition to wine tasting, guests can enjoy guided wine tours hosted by the winery. Non-alcoholic wine will also be available for those who want it. While the event is geared towards people 21 and older, all community members are welcome. Tickets must be purchased in advance; they will not be sold at the door.
The Riddle’s giveaway item will be revealed on the business’s social media page. All profits from the night will be added to the shelter’s general fund, which supports the day-to-day operations and medical needs of the animals.
Although Paws for Wine is hosted in Brookings, its impact extends beyond the city. BRHS serves a geographic area that includes small neighboring towns like Aurora and Volga. Because those towns do not have their own shelters, the event is a chance for the community to come together to support not only Brookings but the entire region.
One of BRHS’s primary goals this year is to increase the number of animals adopted. The shelter aims to facilitate 1,000 adoptions this year. There was a significant increase in adoptions from January 2024, when the shelter saw 36 adoptions, compared to 50 adoptions in January 2025—that’s a 39% increase. The shelter is optimistic that with the help of the community, this goal is within reach.
This fundraising success would not be possible without the dedication of volunteers, many of whom are students from SDSU. Taylor Sutton, a senior wildlife and fishery pre-vet student at SDSU, is one of the many students who give their time to help the shelter.
“I think it’s important to volunteer,” said Sutton, whose responsibilities range from walking dogs to cleaning and even building shelves. These tasks are important to the shelter’s daily operations and give volunteers a rewarding hands-on experience.
Cante Skuya Lonehill, the afternoon shelter coordinator and senior animal science pre-vet student at SDSU said: “It’s a great feeling knowing that we are helping and making a difference. Seeing an animal find a home after months of waiting is such a feel-good moment.”
With so many animals in need, BRHS is always looking for ways the community can get involved. Attending the Paws for Wine event is one way to make a tangible difference but there are other ways to
help, too. Donating money, volunteering, or spreading the word about the shelter’s mission can all contribute to its success. For updates with the latest news about
the event follow BRHS on social media or visit their website.
Tickets for Paws for Wine will be available online.
Courtesy of BROOKINGS HUMANE SOCIETY
The Brookings Humane Society will host its annual Paws for Wine event that supports animals in need with activites such as wine tasting, silent auctions and raffles which will take place on April 25.
The Aerospace Club takes flight
RACHEL RICHTER Reporter
The Aerospace Club has been added to the over 200 clubs offered at South Dakota State University. As of Feb. 4, the Students’ Association Senate recognized the club at their weekly meeting in the Student Union.
The Aerospace Club is advised by Jeffery Doom who hopes the club will develop into an official chapter of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). Doom is associate professor of mechanical engineering and the coordinator for the aerospace minor.
Doom, as well as the members of the executive board, hope the new club will help bring the option of an aerospace engineering major to SDSU. President Turner Marr is pushing for there to be more options for students to explore what they are interested in as well.
“Our hopes and aspirations for the club are to start out by bringing the aerospace industry to SDSU,” Marr said. “We don’t see a whole lot of representation here in the [aerospace] industry.”
The club is working toward constructing an approximately 15-foot-tall rocket that will go 10,000 feet high and will compete in competitions. While the rocket will not be done until November, the club plans to continue bringing in guest speakers each month and attending conferences to broaden their understanding of the aerospace field.
“Right now, the only one [competition] we are planning on competing in is the national competition IREC [the Intercollegiate Rocket Engineering Competition]” Marr said. “IREC is the only one we’re in right now but as we build our club up there is potential to join other competitions as well.”
Delaney Baumberger is the graduate advisor for the club, she is in the first year of her master’s program in mechanical engineering. She is a driving force behind the club and getting it started, there are many events for the club ahead that she helped to plan.
UPCOMING EVENTS
“Going to UNL [University of Nebraska Lincoln] to watch a rocket launch and talk to their rocket team and learn how they do everything,” Baumberger said.
With little prior experience, the club is on a-learn-as-they-go basis. Secretary Becca Nicholson is the only member with prior rocket club experience. Nicholson, a nursing major, was involved in rocket club during her four years of high school and worked with NASA throughout that time.
“I have four years of rocket experience with NASA student launches, those are
nine, nine and a half foot, high powered rockets” Nicholson said. “I have a little bit of experience everywhere that I can share.”
Competitions and constructing the rocket itself are in the near future as the club begins the planning phases of the rocket. Members hope this club is a step towards more aerospace opportunities on campus and after graduation. The aerospace club, as one of the university’s newest clubs, has many new experiences to offer students of all majors.
CLUB MEETING TIMES Thursday at 5-6 p.m. Sunday at 2-5 p.m.
SPECIAL EVENT - MARCH
Speaker from Lockheed Martin Aerospace and Defense company Chief engineer University of Nebraska Lincoln rocket launch
SPECIAL EVENT - APRIL
Officers will launch level 1 rockets to get their certification
Photo courtesy of DELANEY BAUMBERGER
From left to right: Vice president Reagan Hammond, Treasurer Austin Guenther, President Turner Marr, Graduate advisor Delaney Baumberger and Secretary Becca Nicholson.
TAPPED IN McCrory Gardens event teaches more about maple syrup
LILLIE KNOTT Reporter
McCrory Gardens hosted its annual Maple Syrup Workshop event on Sunday, welcoming over 100 attendees to gain knowledge, explore new skills and engage with the local community.
The highly anticipated workshop is designed to teach participants the processes of tree tapping and syrup production. The event featured presentations, demonstrations and useful insights for sustainable practices.
Planning for the Maple Syrup Workshop began with assessing the weather conditions and coordinating schedules with key presenters. Sydney Trio, education coordinator and SDSU Extension Horticulture assistant emphasized the importance of engaging the community with diverse educational programs.
“I think with the mix of different things we have, like the tasting, it is fun for all ages,” Trio said. “As well as the presentation style for people to listen but also giving them an opportunity and time to talk one-on-one with experts,” said Trio.
Attendees received information on tree tapping, sap harvesting and syrup storage. They also had the chance to compare store-bought maple syrup to Mccrory Gardens’ own maple syrup and even sampled McCrory Maple SDSU ice cream. According to Trio, the variety of activities made the workshop a unique and special event for all ages.
Event attendees were given their own bucket and tapping system. This way, they are able to apply what they learned and have the resources to begin their own maple syrup production at home.
John Ball is an SDSU professor, an Extension Forestry Specialist and a South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Forest Health Specialist. He said he’s excited to share the workshop’s content with attendees.
“It’s not that we’re just talking to peo-
ple about how to do it; we’re giving them the materials,” Ball said.
Despite the fact that South Dakota is not known as a forested state, citizens really appreciate the significance of the region’s trees and the vital role they play. Workshops like this are opportunities to strengthen people’s bond with the land and its resources, Ball said.
“Being able to go out and tap your maple tree, collect that sap and utilize it, is just one more of those connections you have with the land,” Ball said.
Event Attendee, Cheri Loest, said that she appreciated the opportunity to learn new skills and explore creative ways to use the sap from maple trees. Her excitement highlighted the workshop’s ability to inspire attendees to experiment and find new uses for local resources.
“I always encourage people when you can learn something, learn it. Information is never wasted,” Loest said.
McCrory Gardens’ Maple Syrup Workshop proved to be more than just an educational event. Participants left with
new skills, tools and inspiration to begin their own maple syrup production
“Things like this give people pause, makes people appreciate and respect nature more. It gets you away from the screen and interacting with the world around you,” Loest said.
Collegian photo by LILLIE KNOTT
Cups are displayed featuring maple syrup from both McCrory Gardens and store brands for attendees to sample. Sydney Trio says she thinks components like this add something for attendees of every age.
Collegian photo by LILLIE KNOTT Atendees listen to presentaton providing more information about maple syrup.
Coffee chain coming to Brookings
Fast-growing Ziggi’s will be on
Main Avenue South
KYRA THORSTENSON
Reporter
Ziggi’s Coffee, a fast-growing national franchise, is opening a location in Brookings this May. It will be located at Trails Head, a new mixed-use apartment and townhome building at 1130 Main Ave. South.
In 2004, founders Brandon and Camrin Knudsen opened the first Ziggi's Coffee in Longmont, Colorado. Since then, Ziggi’s has been expanding rapidly across the U.S., with over 100 locations in 20 states and more than 200 additional stores in development. Some of its newest locations opened in early 2024 in Sioux Falls and Aberdeen, South Dakota.
The franchise is known for its quick, high-quality service and diverse menu, including coffee, energy drinks, smoothies, chai, blenders and sparkling sodas. The company emphasizes how they stand out from other coffee chains and is proud of the brand they’ve made.
"We offer more espresso shots than our competitors, and we try to be known for our speed and efficiency," said Peyton Johnson, social media marketing manager for Ziggi’s locations in Sioux Falls and Brookings.
For customers who have already visited Ziggi’s, convenience is a key draw.
"Ziggi’s is good for people on the run," customer Shannon Wiley said, who often visits both the Sioux Falls and Aberdeen locations. "If you’re in a rush, you can order on their app or go through the drive-thru. It’s very fast and easy."
Despite its focus on efficiency, Ziggi’s aims to balance speed and quality. Wiley described the coffee as sweet but strong and recommends their iced coffee and pistachio-flavored drinks.
"I have a very specific taste in coffee— usually, I don’t like chain coffee places— but I do like Ziggi’s," Wiley said.
Beyond its menu, Ziggi’s markets itself
Year founded: 2004
First location: Longmont, Colorado
Founders: Brandon and Camrin Knudsen
Motto: “The best part of your day”
Other SD locations: Aberdeen, Sioux Falls and Rapid City
as a place for everyone, offering a variety of drinks to cater to different preferences.
"Our motto is ‘The best part of your day,’" Johnson said. "We make an effort to give each customer a unique experience that keeps them coming back."
While Ziggi’s expansion brings more choices for coffee drinkers, some local residents are skeptical about its impact on the market.
Brookings currently has nine standalone coffee shops, three of which are Starbucks. Over the years, independent
cafés have thrived by offering unique atmospheres and specialty drinks, making it a competitive and dynamic market for new coffee businesses.
Zoey Stefanich, a Brookings resident and SDSU alum, expressed concerns about whether there’s room for another chain.
"I’m always here for a new local business to support, but I do think that there are a lot of coffee shops in Brookings, so I am fearful that there isn’t a market for it," Stefanich said.
However, according to Stephanie Mason, vice president of economic development and operations for the Brookings Economic Development Corporation (BEDC), local coffee shops shouldn’t feel threatened.
"For a lot of our downtown coffee shops in particular, the foundation of their revenue comes from roasting coffee," Mason said. "Kool Beans and Cottonwood both have a strong foundation in roasting and selling their beans wholesale, which sets them apart from franchises like Ziggi’s."
In addition, a consumer survey and report from Brookings’ Business Retention and Expansion program found that residents want more retail and restaurant options on the south side of town— where Ziggi’s will be located.
"Ziggi’s emphasizes community, quality and a homegrown feel which aligns well with Brookings as a smaller city," Mason said.
Unlike its Sioux Falls location, which only has a drive-thru, the Brookings Ziggi’s will include an indoor café, allowing for customer interaction and events for locals to enjoy.
"When looking for a coffee shop, I primarily consider local involvement and quality," Stefanich said. "If I’m going to spend my money on coffee regularly, I want it to be good—and I want to support businesses that keep my money circulating in the community."
This aligns well with Ziggi’s values. They believe you can make a real difference in your community and in people's lives, and though it's not easy, you can have fun doing it.
"We try to be involved with the community," Johnson said. "We’ve hosted a couple of fundraisers with local nonprofits and supported local events, and we hope to do the same in Brookings."
Collegian photo by KYRA THORSTENSON
The Trail’s Head construction site at 1130 Main Ave. on the southwest side of Brookings.
UPC trivia event features questions from 80s, 90s, beyond
JORDAN ROEMELING
Co-News Editor
The University Program Council (UPC) hosted its first-ever Generational Trivia Night on Monday, March 3. at 6 p.m. in the Hobo Day Gallery with the American Indian Student Association (AISA).
Teams competed to test their knowledge on multi-generational topics—categories included 1980s sports, 1990s music, 2000s music, 2010s toys, marketing and slogans and history.
Winners were given cash prizes, with first place receiving $100, second place with $75 and $50 for third place.
Sodexo, the university’s food vendor, provided wings for attendees as well.
UPC’s Vice President Alissa Mauer said trivia nights that UPC have hosted over the years have held high attendance rates, which gave Ainsley Plack, UPC’s Recreation and travel coordinator, the idea to host the Generational Trivia Night and to give a spin on regular trivia.
Plack collaborated with Cecelia Nightingale, the social awareness coordinator for UPC, last semester to put together the event, said Emma Brookman, UPC’s President.
“It was kind of a collaborative effort between
the two of them… they came up with the idea last semester and it’s kind of come together since then,” said Brookman.
As far as how many people showed up to play, there were six to seven groups and 23 people who participated in the event. Plack says she “was extremely happy with the turnout.”
Two event attendees, Ingrid Bunn, a sophomore psychology major, and Sarah Carr, a senior history major, said they thought the trivia night was fun.
“It was a good way to get out of the dorms… it’s a nice way to enjoy, actually, being on campus,” said Bunn.
They also said that their favorite questions were music-related and 1990s movies.
Plack said that trivia has become increasingly popular in the past few years, and thinks that the event will continue in the future.
“I think I’m going to take notes of what worked and what didn’t work and how to make it better. I think it’s something that could get a lot of people and could be really big,” Plack said.
Per semester, UPC aims to host 12-15 events, Brookman said.
At the event’s end, Plack told the audience that spots are open on their staff to join UPC.
Collegian photo by JORDAN ROEMELING
UPC hosts first-ever generational trivia night where teams competed for cash prizes in the Hobo Day Gallery on Monday Mar. 3.
CONCERT REVIEW
Sold out crowd on their feet for Rascal Flatts
RACHEL RICHTER Reporter
Rascal Flatts stopped at Denny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls as part of their Life is a Highway tour last week. The tour celebrates the group’s 25 anniversary and how far they have come, especially in recent years.
The group disbanded back in 2021 after their tour was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The group announced in October of 2024 a reunion tour which began Feb. 13. After over five years apart the band was back onstage and loving every second with the crowd.
Rascal Flatts has won numerous awards for their music, which includes 16 No. 1 hits and seven platinum albums. The band has over 40 awards from People’s Choice to Country Music Association Awards. The group’s first award was Top New Vocal Group at the 2001 Academy of Country Music Awards.
Opening the show were two rising names in country music, Lauren Alaina followed by Chris Lane. Alaina talked candidly about her child on the way and who raised her. She sang her newest hit “Those Kind of Women” and an unreleased song.
Lane also paid tribute to how he grew up with songs such as “I Should Have Been a Cowboy” by the late Toby Keith, “Check Yes or No” by George Strait, and many more.
Rascal Flatts performed to a full house for approximately 105 minutes covering 19 songs and having fun with the audience. Bass guitarist Jay DeMarcus had a bit of fun with the crowd, getting everyone to sing along to “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond and wave flashlights while he played the piano.
While Rascal Flatts kept the audience mesmerized for all 19 songs, lead guitarist Joe Don Rooney got emotional talking about his struggles with sobriety. In 2021, Rooney was arrested for driving while intoxicated after crashing into a line of trees near Nashville at 4 a.m.
Rooney talked about his struggles just before singing “I’m Movin’ On” alone. Being sober since his arrest, his bandmates are immensely proud of how far he has come.
Rascal Flatts covered songs from when they first started to their newest release “I Dare You” with the Jonas Brothers.
Their most popular song, “Life is A Highway,” is featured in the movie “Cars” and what the tour is named
after they saved for the end. It had everyone on their feet and singing along. This song reminds people of their childhood and growing up with the band on the radio.
The set had a massive screen behind them that displayed multiple different graphics, and had two smaller screens on either side of the stage to show the band. The stage had many different lighting features as
well that changed with each song.
The band missed performing and having fun on stage with each other and the crowd. It is evident that the reunion tour is something they are excited about and they love performing for a packed enthusiastic crowd that is just as in it as they are.
Collegian photos by RACHEL RICHTER
Rascal Flatts perfoming at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls during their ‘Life is a Highway’ tour
TAYLOR
Jacks Cupboard sees increased use of their program
TENNANT
Assistant Editor
Jacks Cupboard, the on campus food pantry that was developed in 2018, has been utilized over 4,500 times by both undergraduate and graduate students swiping throughout the school year.
“This is easily our busiest year to date,” said Emma Stalboerger, Jacks Cupboard president. “This year more people are aware we exist.”
The awareness of Jacks Cupboard aligns with the campus increase of over 12,000 students on campus this year. Tabling and events held by the Jacks Cupboard student team as well as an added partnership with feeding Brookings this year helped grow their capacity by playing a role to reach more students as well.
With the expected number of students coming in being higher this year, renovation occurred last summer in Jacks Cupboard that would help open up the space and improve the flow for students who come through. New shelving was installed, and two freezers that were donated by Sodexo late last fall were added.
“It was really nice of them to donate and help us out, “ said Olivia Husmann, Jacks Cupboard vice president.
Along with their renovation, they have also had successful organized food drives. The week before Hobo Week they held their second annual Hobos Fighting Hunger food drive. It was a competitive bingo game that was crafted to bring the campus community together while collecting donations for the pantry. They had eight student organizations come together, and donate 755 pounds of food.
“It was the most we have ever seen from a student focused food drive,” said Stalboerger.
Pack the Pantry, their faculty based food drive, occurred at the end of November and had nearly 4,000 items donated. Because of the large amount of donations they have received so far, they are not needing to dip into their funds to purchase items.
“We do have access to a large amount of funds that we don’t want to dip into if we don’t have to,” said Stalboerger.
When it comes to purchasing items for the pantry, they have a partnership with Feeding South Dakota where they get donations of food for a cheaper price. Donations stay consistent and typically come in every other week.
“Sometimes we have gradual donations come in here and there,” said Husmann. “We could easily accept more food if we had more space.”
Last school year they saw around 7,500 pounds of food leaving the Cupboard, and this year they have had well over 6,000 pounds leave with two months of classes left in the school year.
An event called Donations for Citations is happening now, and will go for the rest of the semester. If you receive a parking ticket during the spring semester, you are able to donate items that equal certain amounts to pay for your ticket according to a list that UPD provides. Items can be brought to the Card & Parking Service Center in the Student Union.
Cram the Cupboard, a student focused food drive, will occur May 5-9 when students are finishing their fi nal exams and moving out of the dorms. Boxes will be distributed to the front of residence halls where students are able to donate items that are unopened and in date.
Jacks Cupboard is located southwest of Ben Reifel and this semester it is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3-6 p.m. with summer hours subject to change. They accept food items that are unopened and in date as well as money donations.
HOW IT WORKS
When You Visit
Bring your current student ID and a reusable bag to hold your items. If you don’t have a bag, you can request one at the front desk.
Shop From The Shelves
Please only take what you would use for the week and follow any posted signs.
After Shopping
Checkout at the front desk. You will be asked to scan your student ID and a volunteer at the desk will weigh your items.
Once You’ve Checked Out
You’re good to go! Students can come weekly to the cupboard, so feel free to come again.
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Collegian photo by TAYLOR TENNANT
Men take Summit League Championship while women finish fourth after Dixon’s record-setting run
CORDELL VITENSE
Assistant Sports Editor
Last weekend, the Summit League track and field championship was held in Brookings, with the men’s team winning it all and the women’s team coming home fourth.
“It all worked out and it’s very surreal in terms of even believing it actually happened,” said head coach Rod DeHaven.
Men
Cody Larson put on a show in the 5000-meter. On his route to winning gold, he also set an SDSU school record with a time of 13:55.99, which is also a Summit League Championship record.
Three other SDSU runners competed in the 5000meter with Carson Noecker finishing third, Eli Hall fourth and Cashton Johnson rounding out the group in fifth.
Two Jackrabbits topped the board in the 400-meter, with James Pierce taking the top spot with a time of 47.23, which is the second fastest time in school history. Collecting silver was senior Thailan Hallman, with a time of 47.65.
Peirce and Hallman teamed up with Sam Castle and Lucas Flemmer for the 4x400 and won the event with a time of 3:12.55
In the 60-meter, Jared Wipf came away with a gold medal after tying his program record time of 6.71.
The 200-meter also marked more success for the Jacks, with Carter Toews finishing second with a time of 21.37, his personal best.
Caiden Frederick notched a third place in shot put with a mark of 55-07.75. Frederick’s third-place performance, along with his performance the previous day, earned him the Men’s Field Championship MVP.
Sam Castle had more success after a gold in 4x400; he also finished third in the 800-meter.
After all was said and done, SDSU finished with a final team score of 164.5, second place was NDSU with a score of 148.5 and third was USD with 130.
“Little things just kept rolling our way a little bit and then it came down to the 200, 5000 and 4x400… Carter [Toews] stepped up with a runner-up finish in the 200 and the 5k guys really did well,” said DeHaven. “Obviously, Cody [Larsen] had a big weekend. Carson [Noecker], who struggled on Friday night not scoring in the 3k, comes back and gets third and gets some other places there which were critically important. Then our
4x400, those 400 guys were great and then got it done at the end of the meet.”
Women
Brielle Dixon once again got a gold medal in the 60-hurdles with a time of 8.16, the 23rd fastest time in the nation while also setting a new record time for a Summit League Championship meet.
Madison Kizer secured a silver medal in the high jump with a mark of 1.77m, her personal best and second-best mark in SDSU history.
In the mile, Grace Waage finished second with a time of 4:47.43. Lindsey Rotz also secured a silver medal run-
ning the 800-meter with a time of 2:10.77.
The Jackrabbits put two runners on the podium in the 5000-meter with Jessica Lutmer finishing second and Courtney Stadter finishing third. Lutmer crossed the line with a time of 16:31.07, followed by Stadter’s time of 16:33.40.
NDSU won the team championship with a final score of 188.5, followed by UND who scored 151, USD, with 126 and in fourth the Jacks who tallied 121 points.
Outdoor track and field will start March 27, when SDSU competes in the WashU Distance Carnival in St. Louis, Missouri.
Collegian photo by EMMA WAAGE
Brielle Dixon (right) and Averi Schmeichel (left) racing in the 60-meter hurdles. In this event, Dixon took gold with a 8.16 second finish, a new Summit League Championship record.
Wrestling prepares for Big 12 Championships with nine seeded wrestlers
MARSHALL MINIHAN
Sports Editor
The Jackrabbits will compete in the Big 12 Wrestling Championship on Saturday and Sunday at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
“There is a lot riding on the line,” said head coach Damion Hahn. “I like where our guys are at as far as seeds in the bracket. I think we had nine of our ten guys seeded which is good and that’s seeded in the top eight.”
South Dakota State features a ranked wrestler in nine of the ten weight classes with Avery Allen of SDSU being the sole unraked Jackrabbit in the tournament.
184-pounder Bennett Berge is South Dakota State’s highest-ranked wrestler walking into the tournament. Berge holds the third spot in the 184-pound class behind Parker Keckeisen (first) of Northern Iowa and Dustin Plott (second) from Oklahoma State.
The redshirt sophomore has compiled a 21-4 record on the year and will wrestle Arizona State’s Shay Addison in the first round.
Cobe Siebrecht (157 pounds), Drake Rhodes (165 pounds) and Zach Glazier (197 pounds) all received fourth-place rankings in their first year as a Jackrabbit. 13-5 Glazier received a bye in the first round and will take on the winner of fifth-ranked Ian Bush of West Virginia and Jesse Cassatt of Mizzou.
For Siebrecht, he will be facing off against Ryker Fullmer, an opponent he beat 8-6 in SDSU’s victory over Utah Valley on Jan. 31. Similar to Siebrecht, Rhodes will be up against a wrestler he has not only seen but beat this season. In the team’s 30-10 victory over Northern Colorado, Rhodes matched up against Clayton Ulrey and walked away with a victory by decision 4-1.
Sixth-year Tanner Jordan was awarded the fifth seed in the conference and will be competing against Mitchell Neiner of California Baptist in the 125-pound
JACKRABBIT RANKINGS
125: Tanner Jordan - No. 5
133: Derrick Cardinal - No. 7
141: Julian Tagg - No. 8
157: Cobe Siebrecht - No. 4
165: Drake Rhodes - No. 4
174: Cade DeVos - No. 5
184: Bennett Berge - No. 3
197: Zach Glazier - No. 4
285: Luke Rasmussen - No. 7
weight class. This season, Jordan has collected 21 wins and five losses.
At 174 pounds, Cade DeVos sits fifth in the Big 12. The Altoona, Iowa native finished 17-5 on the mat.
Derrick Cardinal sits at seventh in the 174-pound weight class and received a bye in the first round of the conference tournament. Heavyweight Luke Rasmussen also received a seventh seed and will wrestle Tristan Kemp of California Baptist. Rasmussen finished the regular season with a 16-8 record.
In the 141-pound weight class, Julian Tagg received the eighth seed in the Big 12. Tagg was given a bye in the first round and will take on the winner of Cole Brooks of Wyoming and Andrew Alirez, the top seed in the weight class.
Allen will take on Paniro Johnson from
Iowa State in the 149-pound weight class.
The Big 12 received 61 allocations in all ten weight classes this season which are automated bids into the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships.
The 125, 141, 157,165 and 185-pound classes received seven allocations with 133, 149 and 174 getting six. Both the 197 and 285-pound classes were given four each.
“This is what you prepare for all year, right?” said Hahn. “You finished up the regular season and it was good. We kind of finished on a good note… now we are preparing.”
The tournament will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday with the preliminary and quarterfinal matches. The event can be streamed on ESPN+.
Collegian photo by EAN WETZEL Tanner Jordan in his 6-3 victory over Ethan Perryman. This season, the Jackrabbits are 14-4 in duals. The Big 12 Championships will take place in Tulsa, Oklahoma this weekend.
Meyer leads Jackrabbits into conference tournament after going undefeated in Summit League play
MADISON GILLETTE Sports Reporter
There was a time when Brooklyn Meyer didn’t really see herself playing college basketball.
Yes, that Brooklyn Meyer – the junior post player who will lead South Dakota State’s Jackrabbits into the Summit League Basketball Tournament this weekend in Sioux Falls.
“But I did start to receive offers in eighth grade, starting with SDSU,” she says now. “I then received more offers from places like Iowa, Iowa State, Nebraska, Minnesota, USD, Drake, NDSU and UND.”
Jackrabbit fans are happy Meyer decided to play in Brookings.
The Larchwood, Iowa, native has become a cornerstone player for a Jackrabbits women’s team that fi nished the regular season 26-3 overall and 16-0 in Summit League play. This season marks the third straight year the Jacks have finished with a perfect conference record.
Meyer’s tremendous success has been a key part of that success. She received fi ve awards last season for her performance, one being Summit League Player of the Year. This season, Meyer has been awarded for her 1,000 career points as well as hitting big milestones of 500 career rebounds and 100 career blocks.
The junior finished the regular season averaging 17.5 points, 5.4 boards, 1.7 assists and one steal per game which helped her earn a spot on both the Summit League All-Conference First Team and the Summit League All-Defensive Team.
Meyer started playing basketball when she was in grade school but didn’t love the sport until seventh grade.
“SDSU was my first offer, and they’ve been very consistent with me, helped me grow and develop,” Meyer said, “When I was making a decision it felt obvious SDSU was the place for me and they were really invested in me to come and it really felt like home.”
Meyer’s success didn’t just start in college, though, in fact, she holds a record at her high school for the most blocks in a season, totaling 119. Meyer finished her high school career with 1,493 career points, 967 career rebounds, and 413 career blocks.
As a freshman, Meyer played in all 35 games that season while averaging 5.6 points and 3.6 rebounds.
Her sophomore year was her breakthrough.
Meyer was the first sophomore since 2011 to be named Summit League Player of the Year. She’s also the fourth player in conference history to be named Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season.
On the stat sheet, Meyer led the Jacks with 556 points, 252 rebounds, 61 blocks, and 9 double-doubles just in her sophomore season alone. Meyer also led the Jacks to being Summit League Champions. It is no doubt that Meyer is no stranger to the court.
Meyer is a leader shown by the stat sheet but she’s a leader in many other ways as well.
“Brooklyn’s always been productive, she knows what it takes to make our team win, she’s thoughtful about what her teammates are going through,” head coach Aaron Johnston says, “Very much by example is how she leads and I think she’s good at behind-the-scenes conversationalist and getting to know where people are at.”
Senior teammate Paige Meyer describes Brooklyn as someone who “cares for others and makes everyone around her better in the way she plays.”
One role model Meyer has looked up to since 8th grade is SDSU’s Maya Selland.
“It was really cool to play one year with [Selland] her and learn from her,” Meyer said, “She’s a great player but also a great teammate as well, she still is so great about checking up on me and is a great person in general.”
At South Dakota State, Meyer is majoring in nutrition dietetics and is planning on getting her master’s degree. She wants to be a registered dietitian and work closely with either collegiate or professional athletes.
Meyer and the Jackrabbits will be taking on the winner of Denver and Omaha Thursday at 2:30 p.m. inside the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center.
Summit League Player of the Year (2023-24)
BROOKLYN MEYER Awards
Summit League Defensive Player of the Year (2023-24)
All-Summit League First Team (2023-24 and 2024-25)
Summit League All-Defensive Team (2023-24 and 2024-25)
Summit League All-Tournament Team (2023-24)
Season Averages
Points: 17.5 PPG
Rebounds: 5.4 RPG
Assists: 1.7 APG
Steals: 1 SPG
Blocks: 0.9 BPG
Collegian photo by EAN WETZEL Brooklyn Meyer winning a jump ball against NDSU’s Avery Koenen in SDSU’s Victory over the Bison.
SWEEPING THE SUMMIT
Jacks enter Summit League Tournament 16-0 in conference
MADISON GILLETTE
Sports Reporter
After a successful, undefeated conference record, the South Dakota State women’s basketball team is looking to take the Summit League for the third consecutive year. Nine teams will go head-to-head for the chance to be champions and punch their ticket into the NCAA tournament.
No. 1 South Dakota State (26-3,
16-0
Summit League)
The Jacks didn’t have an easy road to being undefeated. With nail-biters and tough comebacks, the Jacks never let go of their momentum. As a team, the Jacks averaged 75.4 points per game and shot from 48% on field goals.
SDSU totaled 1108 rebounds this season and 491 assists. Junior Brooklyn Meyer leads the team in points with 508 on the season, averaging 17.5 points per game. Brooklyn Meyer ranks first in the Summit League for field goals sitting at an even 64%. Senior Paige Meyer leads the Jacks in assists with 154 this season, putting her at second in the league, while contributing 11.4 points per game. Mesa Byom has tallied 92 rebounds on the season so far, averaging 6.6 per game.
Haleigh Timmer and Madison Mathiowetz are strong shooters for the Jacks as they both have a 3-point percentage of over 40% and have tallied over 100 makes from beyond the arc this season. The Jacks will have a first-round bye and will face the winner of Omaha and Denver.
No. 2 Oral Roberts (22-7, 12-4 Summit League)
The Golden Eagles are ranked second in the conference, boasting only four losses, two of which coming from South Dakota State.
The Golden Eagles average 83.8 points per game while shooting just over 47% from the field. Despite being No. 2, ORU leads the league in forced turnovers, averaging 19.1 per game.
Junior Taleyah Jones leads the Golden Eagles in points, averaging 18.8 per game, ranking third among top scorers in the Summit League this season. Redshirt junior Jalei Oglesby ranks fourth behind her teammates in scoring, averaging 17.6 points per game.
The Golden Eagles will take on USD in the quarterfinals.
No. 3 North Dakota State (19-10, 11-5 Summit League)
“We wouldn’t have had the success that we’ve had... without having some of the best players around.”
The Bison started the season off hot, filling the No. 2 seed but couldn’t hold on as ORU outperformed NDSU at the end of the season.
The Bison average 70 points per game while allowing their opponents 64.6. As a team, they shoot 43% from the field and 32% from beyond the arc.
Sophomore Avery Koenen leads the team with 14.1 points per game, shooting 53.4% from the field. Koenen is ranked fourth in the league for rebounding and field goal percentage. Koenen is also ranked third for blocked
Aaron Johnston, 2024-2025 Summit League Coach of the Year
Collegian photo by EAN WETZEL
Paige Meyer contests a shot from Denver’s Angelica Robles. Meyer put up eight points, two rebounds and lead the team with 4 assists in the Jackrabbits 71-37 win against Denver.
shots.
The Bison will take on Kansas City in the quarterfinals.
No. 4 St.Thomas (16-13, 8-8 Summit League)
Senior Jo Langbehn sits at the helm for the Tommies as she leads the team in points, field goals and rebounds. Langbehn averages 14.9 points per game and shoots 63%, ranking her second in the league. Senior Jade Hill leads the team in assists with 4.6 per game and 134 on the season. Hill sits at third in the Summit League for assists.
As a team, the Tommies shoot 44.6% from the field, averaging 71.5 points per game. St.Thomas will play North Dakota in the quarterfinals.
No. 5 North Dakota (11-18, 6-10 Summit League)
North Dakota ties with Kansas City at a 6-10 record in conference play. The Fighting Hawks shoot just under 43% on field goals while averaging 66.2 points per game and allowing their opponents to score 69.7. The Hawks have the least amount of turnovers in the league averaging at 14.7 per game.
Sophomore Kiera Pemberton has been a standout for the Hawks this season. Pemberton averages 16 points per game and shoots 52.4% on field goals. Pemberton also leads the Hawks in rebounds with 7.2 per game and is ranked fifth in the league.
Sophomore Fatima Ibrahim leads the league in blocks with 50 on the season.
No. 6 Kansas City (11-20, 6-10 Summit League)
The Roos average 65.3 points per game shooting at a field goal of just over 40%. Kansas City’s offense is ranked 8th in the league, second-to-last, while their defense isn’t much better.
Kansas City will play NDSU, who won their first meeting in the season but lost the second.
No. 7 South Dakota (11-19, 5-11 Summit League)
Despite having a tough season, senior Grace Larkins could make an impact and lead the Yotes far into the tournament. Larkins leads the league in scoring, rebounds and assists. Larkins averages 24 points per game, 9.4 rebounds and 5.6 assists. The senior has totaled 719 points, 281 rebounds and 167 assists just this season alone.
As a team, the Yotes are ranked sixth with their offense averaging 66.4 points per game and shooting at 40.7% on field goals. Defensively, the Yotes are seventh in the league, giving up an average of 72.3 points per game.
USD will play ORU in the quarterfinals.
No. 8 Omaha (13-16,
5-11
Summit League)
Omaha tied with USD, however, the Mavericks are ranked fifth in the league for offense and last in defense. The Mavs average 67.4 points per game and shoot 41.6% from the field. Freshman Harriet Ford leads the Mavs in rebounds, averaging 7.9 per game and ranks third in the league.
Omaha will play Denver to see who will face the undefeated Jacks in the quarterfinals.
No. 9 Denver (9-20, 2-14 Summit League)
Having only two wins in conference play, Denver will have to dig deep if they want to move forward in the tournament. The Pioneers shoot the worst in the league at 38.7% on field goals and second-to-last from beyond the arc at 29.1%.
Despite also being ranked last for offense, the Pioneers are the best at free throws with 406 on the season (78.2%).
Junior Jordan Jones leads the Pioneers in scoring with an average of 19.8 and a total of 575 on the season, ranking her second in the league.
Denver will take on the Mavs to try to cause an upset and take on the Jacks in the quarterfinals.
SDSU SUMMIT LEAGUE AWARDS
Summit League COTY: Aaron Johnston
All-Summit First Team: Brooklyn Meyer and Paige Meyer
All-Summit Honorable Mention: Haleigh Timmer
Summit League Defensive Team: Mesa Byom, Brooklyn Meyer and Paige Meyer
All-Summit Freshman Team: Katie Vasecka
Collegian photo by EAN WETZEL Paige Meyer dribbles the ball up the court for the Jackrabbits. Meyer is averaging 29.2 minutes per game and 11.4 points. For her regular season efforts. Meyer received Summit League Defensive honors and All-Summit First Team.
Collegian photo by EAN WETZEL
Madison Mathiowetz works passed St. Thomas guard Jade Hill on her way to the basket. She is second in the team in three-pointers made with 42, only behind Haleigh Timmer. Mathiowetz scored seven points and four rebounds in her matchup against the Tommies.
Jacks to take on Fighting Hawks in first round of conference tournament
JON AKRE Sports Reporter
The 2025 Summit League Tournament kicks off this week in one of the most highly anticipated tournaments yet.
The Omaha Mavericks narrowly earned the top seed with a 13-3 conference record, but multiple teams are in contention for hoisting the trophy on Championship Sunday.
South Dakota State, the defending Summit League champions, earned the No. 3 seed and will host North Dakota in the quarterfinals on Friday.
Here’s what to know about each team ahead of the 2025 Summit League men’s basketball tournament.
No. 1 Omaha (19-12, 13-3 Summit League)
It has been a historic run for Omaha after clinching their first-ever regular season championship in program history in the final week of conference play. Summit League coach of the year Chris Crutchfield has created huge strides from last season’s 7-9 conference record, and now enters Sioux Falls with the best record in the Summit and will play either No. 8 Kansas City or No. 9 Oral Roberts Thursday.
The Mavericks’ veteran leadership has been a huge factor in their success with playmakers like Summit League Player of the Year, Marquel Sutton.
The senior averaged 21 points per game in the Summit League and is the first-ever player in program history to receive Player of the Year honors.
No.
2 St. Thomas (22-9, 12-4 Summit League)
While the Tommies are still ineligible for the NCAA tournament due to the probation rules for teams transitioning to Division 1, a Summit League Championship is still in play for the best shooting team in the conference.
Miles Barnstable and Drake Dobbs have been two workhorses for the Tommies this season. Barnstable, earning 1st-team All-Conference and All-Newcomer team honors, leads the Tommies in points per game, averaging nearly 15 points and three rebounds a game.
Dobbs, who earned 2nd-team and All-Defensive team honors, averages 12 points, four assists and three rebounds per contest, shooting 46% from beyond the arc. The Tommies face-off with the No. 7 Denver Pioneers on Thursday.
No. 3 South Dakota State (20-11, 11-5 Summit
League)
It’s been a relatively down year for the Jacks coming off a Summit League championship a year ago, but they are still poised to make a run in this year’s conference tournament. The Jacks have effectively reloaded after losing
SUMMIT LEAGUE SCORING LEADERS (points per game)
No. 1 Jacksen Moni: 20.6 ppg (NDSU)
No. 2 Isaac McBride: 19.0 ppg (ORU)
No. 3 Marquel Sutton: 18.8 ppg (UNO)
No. 4 Treysen Eaglestaff: 18.3 ppg (UND)
No. 5: Chase Forte: 17.4 ppg (USD)
No.6 Oscar Cluff: 17.3 ppg (SDSU)
all five starters from last season, but it will still be a tough hill to climb to go back-to-back.
“As far as a reset I don’t know if it’s that because we’re not going to reinvent the wheel or anything. It’s not time to put new stuff in or try to trick people. We belive in what we do, we beleive in the guys we have,” head coach Eric Henderson on if the tournament is a reset time for the Jackrabbits.
Oscar Cluff has been one of the best transfer players in the country boasting 17 points, 12 rebounds (2nd in the nation) and three assists, tallying 21 double-doubles in 29 games for the Jacks this season.
Cluff was also a finalist for Summit League Player of the Year and the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award, given to the best center in college basketball. The Jacks matchup with No. 6 North Dakota on Friday.
No. 4 North Dakota State (21-10, 10-6 Summit League)
The Bison are also coming off a year that saw a lot of turnover in the starting lineup, but just like the Jacks, got one of the best big men transfer in the country to
Collegian photo by EAN WETZEL
Damon Wilkenson shoots over Kansas City defender Blake Ammons. The Freshman averages just under five points per game on ten minutes a game.
propel NDSU to the No. 4 seed in the conference.
NDSU’s Jackson Moni has been as advertised for the Bison, netting over 20 points, five rebounds and three assists in his first year of D-1 basketball.
Moni and fellow senior Jacari White have provided a spark that will likely challenge the Mavericks if they can knock off South Dakota in the quarterfinals on Friday.
No.
5 South Dakota (18-13, 9-7 Summit League)
The ‘Yotes have been a late riser in the Summit League, winning five of its last seven games to close out a 9-7 conference record. USD could be a dark horse to win it all in Sioux Falls because of its red-hot offense averaging over 85 points per game, only rivaling Alabama and Gonzaga for the highest scoring average in the country.
The Coyotes’ Achilles heel, however, is on the defensive side of the ball, giving up the most points per game in the conference (83.2 PAPG). The Coyotes will take on No. 4 North Dakota State in the quarterfinals Friday.
No. 6 North Dakota (11-20, 5-11 Summit League)
North Dakota has certainly declined from its 10-6 conference record last season, but could easily pull off an upset or two in the Summit League tournament.
2nd-team All-Conference guard
Treysen Eaglestaff is one of the best scorers in the Summit League, averaging over 18 points per game, including a 40-point game early in the season against Alabama.
Despite totaling just fi ve conference wins, the Fighting Hawks did steal a game against the Jacks in Grand Forks and will look to potentially end their season in Sioux Falls Friday. “You look at North Dakota they’re playing extremely well with there lineup. They’re playing a little bit different, they’ve had a few injuries as well so they’re playing a little more five out motion trying to get you spread out and that will create some challenges for us,” SDSU head coach Henderson.
No. 7 Denver (11-20, 5-11 Summit League)
After making the Summit League Championship game last season, the Pioneers will have an uphill battle to reach the biggest game in the tournament once again.
Losing All-Conference guard Tommy Bruner, Denver has young pieces that will look to make an impact in this year’s tournament, one of which is the Conference Freshman of the Year Sebastian Akins.
This season has seen Akins average 13 points, three assists and two rebounds a game. Alongside Akins is DeAndre Craig, netting 13 points, four rebounds, three assists and a steal per contest as well. The Pioneers tournament will start Thursday against No. 2 St. Thomas.
No. 8 Kansas City (12-19, 4-12 Summit League)
Kansas City enters Sioux Falls as the No. 8 seed in the tournament despite being the preseason favorites in the Summit League. After winning its fi rst two games in conference play over USD and ORU, the Roos dropped 12 of the last 14 games.
UMKC guard Jamar Brown has been a bright spot on a disappointing season for Kansas City, averaging 16 points and seven rebounds, earning 2nd-team All-Conference honors. The Roos will face No. 9 Oral Roberts in Wednesday’s play-in game.
No. 9 Oral Roberts (7-22, 3-13 Summit League)
Just two years removed from an undefeated conference season and a trip to the NCAA tournament, Oral Roberts finds itself as the bottom seed of the 2025 Summit League Tournament. The Golden Eagles won just three conference games this season, but have shown they can be a dangerous team to play in March, knocking off St. Thomas, 71-66, on Feb. 22.
ORU will go as far as senior guard Issac McBride will take them. McBride, a 2nd-team All-Conference selection, nets 19 points per game, shooting 39% from three-point range. ORU and UMKC face off Wednesday night for the right to play top-seeded Omaha in the quarterfinals.
Collegian photo by EAN WETZEL Stoney Hadnot shoots a three over Roo defender Blake Ammons, while Damon Wilkenson boxes out another Kansas City defender. Hadnot averages around six points and four rebounds per game.
