Rapid City, S.D. – The South Dakota State Jackrabbits are set to return to The Monument this weekend for a highly anticipated college basketball showdown. On Saturday, Nov. 14, at 2 p.m., the Jackrabbits will meet the University of Northern Colorado Bears in a rematch of their November 2024 encounter, which also took place in Rapid City.
Local fans get a front‑row seat
Head coach Bryan Petersen expressed enthusiasm about playing in front of the Jackrabbits’ West River supporters once again. “Our fans in the Black Hills have been amazing, and we’re excited to bring the energy of a home‑like crowd back to The Monument,” Petersen said.
The game provides a rare opportunity for Rapid City residents to watch Division I basketball without the long drive to Brookings. The Jackrabbits have cultivated a strong following in the Black Hills, and ticket sales have reflected that enthusiasm.
Venue and community support
Craig Baltzer, executive director of The Monument, highlighted the community’s response to previous SDSU games. “We’ve seen great turnout and enthusiastic support from local fans,” Baltzer noted. “We look forward to hosting another exciting matchup between these regional programs.”
The Summit Arena, located inside The Monument, has become a favored stop for college basketball in the region. Its modern facilities and central location make it an ideal venue for fans traveling from across western South Dakota and eastern Wyoming.
Historical rivalry
The Jackrabbits and Bears share a long‑standing rivalry that dates back to their days in the former North Central Conference. Both schools transitioned to NCAA Division I competition in the mid‑2000s, and the rivalry has continued to grow as each program seeks to establish itself on the national stage.
While the 2024 meeting in Rapid City ended with a hard‑fought contest, both coaches emphasized that the upcoming game will be a fresh start. “Every game is a new chapter,” Petersen said. “We respect Northern Colorado, but we’re focused on executing our game plan and giving our fans a great experience.”
Tickets and logistics
Tickets for the Nov. 14 game are available through The Monument’s website. Fans are encouraged to purchase early, as previous games have sold out quickly. Parking is provided on‑site, and local businesses are offering special promotions for ticket holders, reinforcing the economic boost that college sports bring to the community.
Local restaurants and hotels anticipate increased patronage on game day, underscoring the broader impact of the event beyond the arena. The partnership between the university, the venue, and Rapid City businesses highlights the collaborative spirit that defines the region.
Looking ahead
Both teams will use the game as a benchmark for the remainder of the season. For SDSU, a win would reinforce their momentum heading into conference play, while Northern Colorado hopes to even the series and build confidence for upcoming matchups.
Fans can expect a competitive, high‑energy contest as the Jackrabbits aim to showcase the talent that has made them a staple of South Dakota sports. The game promises to be a celebration of college athletics, community pride, and the enduring rivalry that brings the Black Hills together.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
