Jackrabbits Shock the Nation: SDSU Upsets Oklahoma State in NCAA Thriller!

In a stunning display of determination and skill, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits, a No. 10 seed, achieved a remarkable upset against the No. 7 seed Oklahoma State Cowgirls, winning 74-68 in the first round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. The game, held at Gampel Pavilion on March 22, 2025, will be remembered as a pivotal moment in the tournament for the Jackrabbits, showcasing their ability to compete against higher-seeded teams.

The Jackrabbits entered the game with a strong sense of purpose. However, they faced early challenges, committing 11 turnovers in the first half and only managing to score 24 points. Despite these setbacks, the team remained focused and rallied in the second half, demonstrating incredible resilience and teamwork that ultimately led to their victory.

Brooklyn Meyer emerged as a standout player for South Dakota State, leading the team with an impressive 19 points. Her performance was crucial in keeping the Jackrabbits in the game, especially during the critical moments of the second half. Alongside Meyer, junior guard Madison Mathiowetz contributed significantly with 17 points, including several key plays that shifted the momentum in favor of SDSU.

As the game progressed, the Jackrabbits showcased their shooting prowess, finishing with an impressive 56% shooting percentage from the field. This marked a notable improvement from their first-half performance and was instrumental in their comeback. The turning point came during the third quarter, where SDSU outscored Oklahoma State 28-19, erasing a 31-24 halftime deficit.

In addition to their offensive success, the Jackrabbits dominated the rebounding battle, finishing with 47 rebounds compared to Oklahoma State’s 29. This advantage allowed them to control the pace of the game and create additional scoring opportunities. Paige Meyer also had a standout performance, scoring 16 points, grabbing eight rebounds, and providing six assists, showcasing her all-around game.

Despite Oklahoma State’s center, Tenin Magassa, who was a defensive force with a career-high eight blocks, the Jackrabbits were able to exploit other areas of the Cowgirls’ defense. The victory marked South Dakota State’s sixth NCAA tournament win, further establishing their presence in women’s college basketball. With this win, they extend their current winning streak to 20 games, reflecting their strong performance throughout the season.

The upset has garnered national attention, with fans and analysts praising the Jackrabbits for their determination and skill. This victory serves as an inspiration for underdog teams across the nation, reinforcing the unpredictable nature of March Madness, where lower-seeded teams can triumph over higher-seeded opponents.

Looking ahead, South Dakota State will face the powerhouse UConn in the next round, setting up an exciting matchup that promises to be a test of their mettle. The coaching matchup in this upcoming game features two experienced leaders: SDSU’s Aaron Johnston, in his 25th season, and UConn’s Geno Auriemma, in his 40th season.

As the Jackrabbits prepare for this next challenge, they carry with them not just the momentum of their recent victory but also the hopes of fans who have witnessed their growth and resilience. The game against Oklahoma State exemplified the intense physical play characteristic of the NCAA tournament, with both teams battling hard for every possession.

In conclusion, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits’ victory over Oklahoma State is not just a significant win in the tournament; it is a testament to their growth as a competitive force in the NCAA landscape. The Jackrabbits have proven that with determination, teamwork, and resilience, anything is possible in March Madness. As they look forward to their next challenge, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how far this determined team can go.