University of South Dakota to play South Carolina State in women’s basketball matchup at Sanford Pentagon
Posted: August 9, 2023
The University of South Dakota women’s basketball team will take on South Carolina State in a non-conference matchup at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on Nov. 25. This marks the tenth time the Coyotes will compete at the Sanford Pentagon, while it will be the first time the South Carolina State Lady Bulldogs will play on Heritage Court.
“Bringing these teams together on Heritage Court is going to make for a great early season matchup,” said Jesse Smith, vice president of Sanford Sports. “We always love hosting USD at the Pentagon and are excited to welcome Coach Karius and Coach Eatman to Sioux Falls.”
South Dakota, a member of the Summit League, is coming off a 14-16 season in head coach Kayla Karius’ inaugural season with the Coyotes. South Dakota’s led by all-Summit first-team guard Grace Larkins, who became the first player in league history to finish the season ranked in the top-five for points, rebounds, assists and steals.
“We are privileged to have the opportunity to compete on a prestigious court in November,” said Karius. “The Sanford Pentagon has a historic feel and gives us an opportunity to play in front of our fans and alumni in Sioux Falls! The Pentagon staff has done an incredible job bringing in Power 5 programs, hosting championships and creating a fun environment to compete in. The Pentagon has been great for our program and I am excited for my first opportunity to coach there in front of the Sioux Falls community!”
South Carolina State, a member of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, finished the 2022-23 season with a 3-27 record. Tim Eatman enters his second season as head coach of the Lady Bulldogs.
University of South Dakota vs. South Carolina State is the second NCAA Division I women’s basketball game announced for this upcoming season at the Sanford Pentagon.
Since opening in 2013, the Sanford Pentagon has hosted more than 80 Division I men’s and women’s college basketball games. Last December, the Pentagon hosted a rematch of the 2021 men’s national championship game between No. 6 Baylor and No. 14 Gonzaga. Two weeks later, defending women’s national champions and No. 1 ranked South Carolina defeated South Dakota State on Heritage Court.
