VERMILLION, S.D. — South Dakota came out with early energy and seized momentum in the opening inning, but North Dakota State rallied late to claim a 21-2 victory in Summit League action on Friday afternoon at Nygaard Field.

The Coyotes wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. After a leadoff out in the bottom of the first, Kiya Johnson sparked the offense with a single down the right-field line. Madison Evans followed by drawing a walk, and both runners advanced into scoring position on a wild pitch. Brooke Carey then delivered the big hit of the inning, lining a two-RBI single through the left side to give South Dakota a 2-0 lead and energize the home crowd. 

South Dakota continued to battle offensively throughout the game. Evans added a single later in the contest, finishing the day reaching base twice, while Carey led the Coyotes with two hits and both of the team's RBIs. Johnson also contributed with a hit and a run scored as USD totaled four hits on the afternoon. 

In the circle, Peyton Paulsen made the start for the Coyotes, working through the early innings before Aubrey Lensmeyer and Campbell German provided relief. Despite the challenging outcome, the pitching staff continued to compete against a North Dakota State lineup that capitalized on key opportunities as the game progressed. 

Defensively, the Coyotes showed resilience with several key outs, including a double play in the second inning that helped maintain their early advantage. South Dakota also demonstrated patience at the plate, drawing four walks and creating scoring opportunities throughout the game. 

Although the Bison mounted a comeback in the middle innings, South Dakota's strong start and individual performances highlighted the team's determination and competitiveness in Summit League play. The Coyotes will look to build on the positives from the early innings as they continue their conference schedule.