South Dakota State at Duke

DURHAM, N.C. (Interstat) — A surging South Dakota State squad will face a Duke team seeking consistency in a nonconference women’s basketball matchup Thursday at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

The Jackrabbits (10-2) enter on a five-game winning streak, most recently defeating Ball State 78-59 on Sunday. Their momentum contrasts sharply with the Blue Devils (4-6), who have struggled against a tough schedule but are coming off a 70-54 road win at Virginia Tech on Dec. 7.

South Dakota State’s success is fueled by forward Brooklyn Meyer, who has been dominant. Over her last seven games, Meyer is averaging 20.4 points, including a 28-point performance at Northern Arizona and a 20-point outing against Ball State. Her versatility was on full display in a late-November win at Kansas State, where she posted 18 points, eight rebounds and six assists.

Duke will counter with guard Taina Mair, who leads the Blue Devils’ backcourt. Mair scored 17 points with five rebounds in the victory at Virginia Tech and dished eight assists in a loss to South Carolina. Her playmaking will be crucial against a disciplined Jackrabbits defense.

While South Dakota State has rolled through its recent mid-major slate, its two losses came against power conference opponents North Carolina and Columbia. Duke’s record is marred by defeats to ranked teams like LSU, UCLA and South Carolina, indicating a challenging early slate.

The game represents a key opportunity for Duke to build a winning streak before ACC play resumes, and a chance for South Dakota State to secure a notable road victory against a Power Five program. Following this contest, Duke travels to Belmont on Saturday, while South Dakota State hosts Texas on Dec. 21.

Tipoff is set for Thursday evening at historic Cameron Indoor Stadium.