The world of college basketball has changed a lot with the transfer portal and the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. These shifts have hit mid-major programs hard, and South Dakota State University (SDSU) is definitely feeling it.
Still, the Jackrabbits are trying out new ways to stay in the game. They’re finding their own advantages, even if the landscape looks a bit rough these days.
The Transfer Portal’s Impact on Mid-Major Programs
The transfer portal lets players move between schools much more easily than before. A lot of them are looking for better opportunities at bigger, power conference schools.
For a mid-major like SDSU, this has meant losing some of their best players to places with bigger NIL deals. Baylor Scheierman left for Creighton, Zeke Mayo went to Kansas, and Oscar Cluff is now at Purdue. It’s a tough reality for programs trying to keep their top talent.
SDSU’s Response to Player Departures
So, what do you do when your stars leave? Coaches Aaron Johnston and Bryan Petersen are pretty realistic about it. They know they can’t match the Big Ten when it comes to NIL money.
Instead, they’re focusing on their own strengths. Johnston says it’s about finding players who really want to be at SDSU—guys ready to step up and make their mark as Jackrabbits.
Leveraging Unique Advantages
SDSU does have some things going for it. For one, they’re the top program in the state, with no nearby powerhouses stealing the spotlight. That means a lot of local support, which actually matters more than you’d think.
Athletes who want to play in front of hometown fans and feel that community vibe? SDSU is a pretty appealing place for them.
Fan Support and Facilities
The fan support here is honestly next level, at least by Summit League standards. First Bank & Trust Arena just got a big renovation, and it’s made game days way more exciting for everyone.
The facilities—arena, practice gym, locker rooms—are all top-notch for a mid-major. Not every program can say that. For recruits, having a strong fan base and great amenities can make a real difference.
Women’s Basketball: A Shining Example
The men’s team has lost some key players, but the women’s team has done a better job holding onto its stars. Well, mostly—losing Haleigh Timmer to Oklahoma State stung.
Even so, the women’s team is thriving. Fan support is a huge part of that. Last season, they averaged almost 3,000 fans per game, which blows the rest of the league out of the water.
The Role of Community and Culture
For a lot of players, the community around SDSU means everything. Joe Sayler, one of the guards, talks about how the local support makes Brookings a special place to play.
That kind of bond isn’t something you find everywhere—it’s a big reason some athletes pick SDSU over bigger schools.
Future Strategies for Success
Looking forward, SDSU’s got a few ideas to stay competitive. They’re working to improve their NIL options, keep their facilities up to par, and lean into that strong community backing.
Coach Petersen figures they might not have the biggest NIL deals, but the overall experience at SDSU is worth a lot in its own way.
Recruiting the Right Players
They’re putting the focus on finding players who want more than just money. Guys who want to win, who enjoy being part of a close-knit community, and who like the idea of being a “big fish in a small pond.”
That’s the kind of athlete who fits at SDSU—and maybe, that’s the secret to making it work in this new era.
Conclusion
College basketball just keeps changing, doesn’t it? Programs like SDSU are right in the thick of it, facing some pretty tough challenges.
Still, they’ve got some things going for them. There’s genuine local support, solid facilities, and a community that actually cares.
Sure, sometimes top talent heads for bigger schools. But SDSU seems pretty focused on finding players who fit and making the experience better for everyone.
If you’re curious about how SDSU is handling the transfer portal and NIL deals, check out the full article on Sioux Falls Live.
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