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January 17, 2026
Betty Engelstad Sioux Center
Pre-Game Analysis

Preview: South Dakota at North Dakota

The Battle of the Plains: North Dakota vs South Dakota

The stage is set for an epic showdown between two NCAA Division I basketball teams as North Dakota takes on South Dakota in what promises to be a thrilling matchup. The stakes are high, with each team looking to claim bragging rights and propel themselves into the thick of playoff contention.

Key Matchup: Rebounding Battle

As we dive into the analysis, one thing is clear: the battle for rebounds will be crucial in determining the outcome of this game. Both teams boast strong rebounding averages, but North Dakota's Greyson Uelmen (5.2 RPG) and South Dakota's Cameron Fens (7.4 RPG) will be key players to watch as they clash for position.

Recent Form

North Dakota comes into this matchup on a hot streak, having won four of their last five games against strong opponents like Kansas City and Oral Roberts. The Fighting Hawks have been playing with confidence, led by the sharpshooting of Eli King (5.2 RPG) and the tenacious defense of Anthony Smith III (2.6 APG).

South Dakota, on the other hand, has struggled to find consistency, alternating between victories and tough losses in their last five games. The Coyotes have been relying heavily on the hot shooting of Isaac Bruns (20.8 PPG), but will need to find a way to contain Uelmen's scoring threat.

X-Factor: Anticipation

As these two teams prepare to face off, one question lingers in the minds of basketball enthusiasts everywhere: who will come out on top? Will North Dakota's stifling defense be enough to slow down South Dakota's potent offense, or will the Coyotes' explosive playmaking prove too much for the Hawks to handle?

The Game

With the stakes high and the tension palpable, this matchup is shaping up to be an instant classic. The battle for rebounds will be a key factor, as both teams look to exploit each other's weaknesses on the glass.

Will Greyson Uelmen and Eli King lead North Dakota to victory with their relentless drive and determination? Or will Isaac Bruns and Uzziah Buntyn light it up from beyond the arc and send the Coyotes crashing to the floor?

One thing is certain: this game has all the makings of a thriller. Will you be there to witness the action unfold?

Generated by AI 381 words 1.9 min read
Tags: North Dakota South Dakota college basketball

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