VERMILLION, S.D.—Two points are up for grabs inside the Sanford Coyote Sports Center Sunday for the South Dakota Showdown Series presented by South Dakota Corn, a yearlong athletic and academic competition between USD and SDSU.
 
Both universities are encouraging fans to "Get Off the Bench" to help combat hunger in the state of South Dakota. Fans attending Sunday's games can donate to Feeding South Dakota, a hunger relief organization in Sioux Falls, by swiping their credit/debit cards at "dip jars" located in the arena's concession stands, or through cash donations at donation barrels throughout the concourse. Donations can also be made online at www.feedingsouthdakota.org/showdown.
 
"When USD moved up to Division I in 2012, we knew the in-state rivalry games would capture the attention of students and fans," said Teddi Mueller, South Dakota Corn's marketing director. "It provided a great opportunity for a new program that would start conversations about modern agriculture and food production, and support Feeding South Dakota at the same time. After all, the main mission of South Dakota farmers is to feed people, whether they are around the world or in the communities across our state." 
 
At the conclusion of last year's Showdown Series, Feeding South Dakota was able to provide 280,000 meals for adults and children throughout the state because of a generous $70,000 donation from South Dakota Corn.
 
Fans will notice that the players will be wearing burnt orange shooting shirts during warmups, while many of the coaches will be incorporating orange into their game day attire. The color burnt orange represents the fight to end hunger.
 
South Dakota, behind a strong fall showing that included a 24-21 win on the gridiron, leads this year's Showdown Series 5.5-1.5 heading into Sunday's basketball games.

Click here for more information on the South Dakota Showdown Series.