A Season to Remember
South Dakota State University’s junior first baseman/designated hitter Luke Luskey was crowned the 2025‑26 College Baseball Athlete of the Year by Sioux Falls Live, a testament to a breakout season that blended power, consistency and leadership.
Luskey finished the year batting .291 while driving in 55 runs and launching 13 home runs, numbers that placed him atop the Summit League in RBIs and second in the league for homers.
Statistical Dominance
His .291 average, 55 RBIs and 13 homers not only led the conference but also positioned him among the nation’s most productive hitters, a feat all the more impressive given the Jacks’ 24‑33 overall record.
Historic Milestones
The junior’s 35 career home runs tie him for fifth in program history, while his RBIs mark the highest single‑season total in the Summit League this year.
A Historic Tournament Return
The Jacks’ victory in the regional qualifier ended a 13‑year absence from the NCAA tournament, a milestone that has reignited campus enthusiasm and local support.
Coach Troy Berg praised the senior’s work ethic, noting that “Luke’s dedication in the weight room and his approach at the plate set a standard for the entire squad.”
Senior pitcher Nolan Grawe summed up the sentiment among teammates, tweeting, “So proud of Luke — this is just the beginning.”
The recognition has also drawn attention from national outlets, including Just Women’s Sports and the Southeast Missourian, which have begun to chronicle the Jacks’ rise.
As the program looks ahead, the blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent promises to keep the Jacks competitive in the coming seasons.