VERMILLION, S.D. — The South Dakota volleyball team has set new precedents this year with its best start in conference play, its best start at the Division-I level and now can clinch its first regular season Summit League title since joining the league in 2011.
South Dakota's home contests this Friday and Saturday are the biggest so far this season. The Coyotes host Denver Friday at 6 p.m. and welcome South Dakota State Saturday at 6 p.m. USD's match against the Jackrabbits is senior day for the Coyotes.
Lindsey Brown and
Audrey Reeg will be honored before the match.
Summit League title on the line
South Dakota currently sits one game back of defending Summit League champion Denver. With a Coyote win against the Pioneers, the two would be tied for the top spot in the Summit. USD ends the season against in-state rival SDSU and Denver travels to Fargo on Sunday to play North Dakota State. Depending on the outcome of each game, the Coyotes could clinch a share of the title or win it outright.
The Series
Denver has had South Dakota's number as of late. The Pioneers lead the series 6-2 and have won four straight matches. However, the Coyotes have been at home for both of their wins. Against SDSU, South Dakota took the all-time series lead earlier this year and is up 13-12. USD has won 11 of the past 12 matches.
Summit League Tournament | Tournament Central
The tournament begins Friday Nov. 18 in Denver and goes through Sunday with the championship match being played at 3 p.m. CT. Out of the nine Summit League teams, six make the tournament. The top two seeds get a first-round bye. The winner of the No. 4 and No. 5 match will play No. 1, and the winner of No. 3 and No. 6 will take on the No. 2 seed.
