The sports arena is set for a captivating basketball showdown as the St. Thomas Tommies take on the South Dakota State Jackrabbits. This encounter follows a spectacular performance by Nolan Minessale, who recently starred in a commanding 23-point display leading the Tommies to a strong 79-62 victory against the North Dakota State Bison.
Both teams are renowned within the Summit League, with the Jackrabbits boasting an impeccable record of 10-0 at home. Known for their formidable defense, South Dakota State ranks sixth in college basketball, averaging 27.4 defensive rebounds per game, prominently led by Oscar Cluff, whose individual average stands at 8.4 rebounds.
Meanwhile, the Tommies have carved an impressive path with an 8-1 record in the Summit League. A significant portion of their success is due to their scoring prowess in the paint, where they hold a second-ranking position by accumulating 36.3 points per game. Minessale is a key figure in this regard, contributing an average of 7.7 points inside the paint.
The Tommies will need to tighten their defense as South Dakota State averages a robust 79.4 points per game, an edge over the 74.2 points allowed by St. Thomas. It’s noteworthy that the Tommies have a decisive advantage from beyond the arc. They average 10.8 three-pointers per game, exceeding South Dakota State's average defense of 9.1 per game.
Top Performers to Watch:
- Joe Sayler: A consistent threat for the Jackrabbits, he nails down 2.0 three-pointers per game, contributing 13.3 points while maintaining a 36% shooting accuracy from three-point range.
- Oscar Cluff: A pivotal player for South Dakota State, Cluff has been on an exceptional run, shooting 59.8% and scoring 18.1 points in recent outings.
- Miles Barnstable: On the Tommies' front, Barnstable is delivering a notable 43.7% shooting rating, averaging 14.9 points per game.
- Nolan Minessale: Over the past 10 games, Minessale has been a standout for St. Thomas, averaging 14.2 points and driving the Tommies’ offensive machine.
Recent Form:
In their last ten games, the Jackrabbits have recorded a 6-4 performance, posting an average of 82.0 points, 37.7 rebounds, and 14.3 assists per game. This period has showcased their offensive flair with a commendable shooting efficiency of 48.5% from the floor. However, challenges remain as opponents have tallied an average of 75.5 points against them.
On the flip side, the Tommies have emerged with an 8-2 record. Their stats paint a picture of offensive dominance, averaging 83.3 points and 49.9% shooting efficiency over the past ten games. The hustle and commitment of the team reflect in their robust averages of 26.7 rebounds, 14.8 assists, and notable defensive numbers with 5.7 steals and 3.0 blocks per game, countering opponents' 77.1 points.
This upcoming clash promises to be more than just a game; it's a battle of wits, skill, and a test of resilience. Both teams have an objective to maintain their momentum in the Summit League, setting the stage for an exciting and adrenaline-pumping encounter this Thursday in Brookings, South Dakota.