SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Behind the dynamic performances of Paige Meyer, Haleigh Timmer, and Madison Mathiowetz, No. 25 South Dakota State displayed its consistency and prowess in the Summit League by triumphing over Oral Roberts with an 84-68 victory on Sunday. This win marks the Jackrabbits’ third consecutive title and their 13th appearance in the NCAA tournament.
The Jackrabbits are on an impressive 19-game winning streak, having remained undefeated in their last 59 encounters against league opponents. Their remarkable run in the Summit League tournament is highlighted by a 41-5 record since becoming eligible in 2009, clinching the championship 12 times.
Despite Brooklyn Meyer, the team’s leading scorer with an average of 17.5 points per game, being limited to just 10 points, her contribution was undeniable through her 15 rebounds. This outstanding performance was complemented by Mesa Byom, who also achieved a career-high with 13 rebounds. Paige Meyer excelled not only in scoring but also as a playmaker, providing nine assists.
For the second-seeded Oral Roberts Golden Eagles (24-8), both Taleyah Jones and Emily Robinson scored 17 points each, as Jalei Oglesby and Ruthie Udoumoh contributed 11 points. The Golden Eagles aimed to return to the NCAA tournament for the first time in 12 years but fell short despite their effort.
The Jackrabbits staged an electrifying start, hitting 5 out of 8 from beyond the arc in the opening quarter with Timmer leading the charge by netting 10 points, securing a 19-10 advantage. Oral Roberts briefly flipped the script in the second quarter, spearheaded by Makyra Tramble’s 3-pointer, resulting in an 11-0 rally that put them ahead 23-21. However, a timely 3-pointer from Mathiowetz swung the momentum back to the Jackrabbits, who ended the first half with a 46-36 lead.
In the third quarter, Mathiowetz and Paige Meyer’s consecutive 3-pointers extended the lead to 16 points. Although Oral Roberts managed to reduce the deficit to five points at one stage, South Dakota State effectively maintained their edge without scoring from the field for six minutes. They capitalized on free-throw opportunities, successfully sinking 7 of 9 to carry a 65-55 lead into the final quarter.
