OMAHA, Neb. (Interstat) — A Summit League women’s basketball matchup featuring teams at opposite ends of the conference standings is set for Thursday when the South Dakota Coyotes visit the Omaha Mavericks.

South Dakota (14-5) enters Baxter Arena riding a three-game winning streak, including a decisive 75-55 victory over Denver last Saturday. The Coyotes have won five of their last six, showcasing a defense that has held opponents to an average of 50.8 points during that stretch.

Omaha (2-19) seeks to halt a five-game skid, having last won on Dec. 27 against NAIA opponent Briar Cliff. The Mavericks have struggled in conference play, with their most recent loss an 85-52 defeat at Oral Roberts.

A key matchup will be in the frontcourt between South Dakota’s Patience Williams and Omaha’s Avril Smith. Williams, coming off a 21-point performance against Denver, provides efficient scoring for the Coyotes. Smith anchors Omaha’s interior defense, averaging 11.3 rebounds and 3.0 blocks over her last three games, including a 16-rebound, 5-block effort at Oral Roberts.

The Coyotes won the season’s first meeting 67-47 on Jan. 3 in Kansas City, dominating the second half. Omaha will need to find consistent offense to challenge South Dakota’s balanced attack, which features multiple scoring threats like Angelina Robles and Elise Turrubiates.

South Dakota looks to maintain its position near the top of the Summit League ahead of a key stretch, while Omaha aims to find a spark at home against a formidable opponent. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST.