Preview: UMKC Kangaroos at South Dakota State Jackrabbits

BROOKINGS, S.D. (Interstat) — Two Summit League men’s basketball teams looking to halt slides will meet Saturday when the South Dakota State Jackrabbits host the Missouri-Kansas City Kangaroos at Frost Arena.

The Kangaroos (4-15, 1-3 Summit) enter on a three-game losing streak, most recently falling 99-83 at South Dakota on Thursday. Guard Kasheem Grady led UMKC in that loss with 21 points. Grady has been a bright spot, averaging 15.3 points over his last three games where he has played at least 24 minutes. UMKC’s only conference win came on the road at Omaha on Jan. 3.

South Dakota State (9-10, 2-2) aims to bounce back from a 76-65 road loss to North Dakota State on Wednesday. The Jackrabbits have alternated wins and losses over their last five games. They are led by guard Jaden Jackson, who has been a consistent force, scoring in double figures in nine of his last ten contests. Jackson is coming off a 16-point, 4-assist performance in the loss to NDSU and averaged 19.5 points in two games prior.

While the Jackrabbits hold the better overall record, conference play has leveled the field. South Dakota State is 5-3 at home this season, while UMKC is 1-10 in true road games. The matchup will feature a contrast in offensive tempo; UMKC has allowed 90 or more points in three of its last five games, while South Dakota State has shown scoring balance but seeks more defensive consistency.

Historically, South Dakota State has dominated the series, but both teams are focused on securing a pivotal early-January league victory to build momentum. For UMKC, containing Jackson and finding secondary scoring beyond Grady will be key. For the Jackrabbits, protecting home court and capitalizing on UMKC’s road struggles is imperative.

The game is scheduled for a 4:30 p.m. CST tip-off on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026.