Preview of South Dakota State’s No. 6/6 Women’s Basketball Team (2024-25 Season)
As the South Dakota State University (SDSU) women’s basketball team enters the 2024-25 season, expectations are higher than ever before. Ranked No. 6 in both the Associated Press (AP) and USA Today/WBCA Coaches Polls, the Jackrabbits are poised to continue their dominance in the Summit League and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. This ranking is a testament to the program’s consistency and growth under head coach Aaron Johnston, who has helped shape SDSU into a perennial contender at the national level.
The Jackrabbits have long been one of the premier programs in mid-major basketball, and the 2024-25 season looks to be another chapter of success for the team. The squad returns a blend of experienced upperclassmen and promising newcomers, all of whom contribute to what is shaping up to be an exciting and competitive season. With high expectations come big challenges, but SDSU has the talent and the leadership to meet them head-on.
Team Overview: A Championship Culture
South Dakota State has built a championship culture over the past decade, culminating in regular appearances in the NCAA Tournament, a Summit League championship every season since 2018, and a reputation for producing high-level talent both on the court and in the community. The team’s success is attributed to a combination of strong recruiting, excellent coaching, and a commitment to developing players into well-rounded individuals and athletes.
The 2024-25 Jackrabbits are a team with multiple strengths. SDSU has traditionally been known for its fast-paced offense, excellent shooting, and unselfish play. They excel in transitioning from defense to offense and are particularly dangerous beyond the arc. However, what sets this team apart is its ability to adapt and overcome challenges. The Jackrabbits have proven to be adaptable, able to make adjustments in tough games and handle adversity with poise.
Key Players: A Deep Roster
SDSU boasts a wealth of talent in both returning players and new faces, making this roster one of the most complete in recent history. Here are some of the key players to watch this season:
Paiton Burckhard (Senior, Forward)
One of the most accomplished players in SDSU history, Paiton Burckhard is the anchor of the Jackrabbit offense. The senior forward is a versatile scorer who can attack the basket with power and finesse while also being a consistent threat from the perimeter. Burckhard’s basketball IQ and leadership make her an invaluable asset to the team. Having already earned numerous honors, including Summit League Player of the Year, Burckhard is looking to solidify her legacy as one of the top players in SDSU history.
Tori Nelson (Junior, Guard)
Tori Nelson is another player to watch this season. As a sophomore, Nelson took a significant leap forward, emerging as one of the top guards in the Summit League. She possesses excellent court vision and the ability to create plays for herself and her teammates. Nelson is known for her ability to distribute the ball, make smart decisions under pressure, and hit clutch shots when needed. Her shooting range and defensive skills make her a key player on both ends of the floor.
Maya Siler (Senior, Center)
Maya Siler has been a force in the paint for the Jackrabbits throughout her career. As a senior, Siler is looking to take on more responsibility, especially in terms of rebounding and rim protection. She provides a strong interior presence for the Jackrabbits and is a reliable scorer around the basket. Siler’s ability to alter shots and dominate the glass will be crucial for SDSU, especially when facing teams with tall, physical frontlines.
Tori Alford (Sophomore, Guard)
Tori Alford had an impressive freshman season and will likely take on a larger role in 2024-25. A dynamic guard with a quick first step, Alford is a strong ball handler and a capable scorer. Her ability to stretch defenses with her outside shooting, as well as her defensive versatility, will be key for SDSU’s success this season. Alford’s growth could be one of the X-factors for the team’s aspirations to go deeper in the NCAA Tournament.
Freshman Impact: The Newcomers
While the core of the team will be carried by the experienced upperclassmen, SDSU’s freshmen also hold promise for the future. Head coach Aaron Johnston has built a strong recruiting class, with several newcomers expected to make an immediate impact. The team has brought in players who can contribute on both sides of the ball, adding depth to an already talented roster.
Look for the freshmen to add energy and intensity to the team, and some may even break into the starting lineup, providing a fresh dynamic that complements the veterans. Their versatility and ability to contribute in multiple areas of the game will be essential for the Jackrabbits’ success.
Coaching: Aaron Johnston’s Legacy
Aaron Johnston has been the head coach of the Jackrabbits for nearly two decades, and his impact on the program is undeniable. Over his tenure, Johnston has led SDSU to numerous NCAA Tournament appearances, several Summit League titles, and national recognition. His ability to recruit top talent, develop players, and adjust to the evolving landscape of women’s basketball has kept the program competitive at the highest levels.
Johnston is known for his calm, focused demeanor and his ability to motivate his players. He places a strong emphasis on fundamentals, teamwork, and player development. His success is not just measured by the number of wins but by the character of the individuals in his program. His leadership will be crucial as SDSU looks to continue its dominance in the Summit League and make a run in the NCAA Tournament.
Team Strengths: High-Scoring Offense and Defense
One of the defining features of the 2024-25 South Dakota State women’s basketball team is its high-scoring offense. The Jackrabbits have been one of the top scoring teams in the country in recent seasons, and they will look to continue that trend this year. The team’s ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting, while also scoring efficiently inside, makes them difficult to defend.
In addition to their offensive prowess, SDSU has a strong defense. The Jackrabbits are known for their tenacious full-court press and their ability to force turnovers. Their defensive strategy often leads to fast-break opportunities, which they capitalize on to put up points in transition. SDSU’s defensive rotations and ability to contest shots at the rim will be key in limiting opponents’ scoring.
The combination of offense and defense makes SDSU one of the most well-rounded teams in the nation. They are a high-octane squad that can win games in a variety of ways, whether through a dominant offensive showing or by locking down their opponents on defense.
Challenges and Opportunities
While SDSU enters the 2024-25 season with high expectations, there are still challenges the team will need to overcome. First and foremost, the competition in the Summit League is becoming increasingly tough. Teams like North Dakota State and Omaha have shown significant improvement in recent years, and SDSU can’t afford to overlook any opponent. The Jackrabbits will need to bring their best effort night in and night out in conference play to maintain their standing atop the league.
Another challenge for SDSU will be depth. While the team has a strong starting five, injuries or foul trouble could expose weaknesses in the bench. The Jackrabbits will need their role players to step up when called upon, especially in big games or during tournament play. The bench will need to be ready to provide valuable minutes and contribute in critical situations.
However, SDSU also has several opportunities that can elevate them to the next level. The team’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations, especially in NCAA Tournament games, will be key to their success. With their experience, talent, and leadership, the Jackrabbits are poised to make a deep run, and they have the potential to challenge some of the nation’s top programs in the postseason.
