South Dakota Vs South Dakota State Women's Basketball
The rivalry between South Dakota and South Dakota State Women's Basketball teams is one of the most intense in college basketball. These two teams have been competing against each other since the 1970s, and their games are always full of excitement and intensity. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of this rivalry and what makes it so special.
The History of the Rivalry
The rivalry between South Dakota and South Dakota State started in the 1970s when both teams were members of the Great Plains Athletic Conference. Since then, the two teams have faced each other over 100 times, with each game adding another layer to the rivalry.
The rivalry really heated up in the 1990s when both teams moved to the North Central Conference. During this time, both teams were among the best in the conference, and their games were always highly anticipated. This era of the rivalry culminated in 1997 when South Dakota State won the conference tournament, beating South Dakota in the championship game.
In 2006, South Dakota State left the North Central Conference to join the Summit League, while South Dakota remained in the conference until 2011 when they also joined the Summit League. This move put the two teams in the same conference, which has only intensified the rivalry over the past decade.
What Makes the Rivalry So Special?
There are many factors that make the rivalry between South Dakota and South Dakota State Women's Basketball teams so special. First, the two schools are located only about 70 miles apart, which makes it easy for fans of both teams to attend each other's games. This proximity has created a natural rivalry that has been fueled by decades of competitive games.
In addition, both teams have a long history of success on the basketball court. South Dakota has won 17 regular-season conference championships, while South Dakota State has won 10. Both teams have also made numerous appearances in the NCAA Tournament, with South Dakota State making it to the Sweet 16 in 2019.
But perhaps the most important factor that makes this rivalry so special is the passion that both teams and their fans bring to each game. The players on the court give it their all, knowing that they are not just playing for themselves, but for their school and all of the fans who support them. This passion is evident in every game and is one of the things that makes this rivalry so exciting to watch.
The Future of the Rivalry
The rivalry between South Dakota and South Dakota State Women's Basketball teams shows no signs of slowing down. With both teams continuing to compete at a high level and their fans showing no signs of losing their passion for the rivalry, it seems likely that this rivalry will continue to be one of the most intense in college basketball for many years to come.
Only time will tell what the future holds for this rivalry, but one thing is for sure: every time South Dakota and South Dakota State Women's Basketball teams take the court against each other, you can be sure that it will be a game worth watching.