Preview: South Dakota Coyotes at South Dakota State Jackrabbits

BROOKINGS, S.D. (Interstat) — The in-state rivalry resumes Saturday when the South Dakota Coyotes visit the South Dakota State Jackrabbits in a Summit League men’s basketball clash at Frost Arena.

Both teams enter the Feb. 7, 2026, matchup seeking consistency in the second half of the conference schedule. The visiting Coyotes (13-12 overall) are coming off an 82-75 overtime road win at Missouri-Kansas City on Wednesday. The home-standing Jackrabbits (11-13) look to rebound from a 77-62 home loss to Saint Thomas (Minn.) on the same night.

The game features two of the league’s top performers. South Dakota is led by guard Uzziah Buntyn, who is averaging 17.5 points over his last eight games. He scored 20 points in 43 minutes in the win over UMKC and poured in 25 points in an overtime loss to North Dakota State on Jan. 31.

South Dakota State counters with guard Joe Sayler, who has shown high-scoring ability despite the team’s recent struggles. Sayler scored 24 points in a win over Oral Roberts on Jan. 31 and had 22 points in a rout of UMKC on Jan. 17.

The Coyotes have experienced a stretch of close games, with three of their last six contests decided in overtime. Their offense has been potent, scoring at least 82 points in four of their last five outings. Cameron Fens added 23 points off the bench in the win over UMKC.

The Jackrabbits have lost three of their last four, with their lone win in that span a 23-point victory over Oral Roberts. Defense has been an issue, allowing an average of 77.5 points in those four games.

Historically, games in this rivalry are fiercely contested. The teams will meet again in Vermillion on Feb. 28 to close the regular season. For now, both seek a crucial conference victory to improve their positioning before the upcoming Summit League tournament.

Saturday’s winner will gain early bragging rights and momentum in a series that often defines the season for both programs.