A strategic overhaul
South Dakota's men's basketball program has entered a new chapter under head coach Eric Peterson, who has turned to the transfer portal to rebuild a roster depleted by eight scholarship departures and four graduates.
The latest wave of transfers brings a mix of size, skill and shooting. Tyler Netolicky, a 6‑foot‑10 forward from Kirkwood Community College, averaged 12 points and 10.5 rebounds last season, while sharpshooter Melo Sanchez from Central Connecticut State hit 42.8% from beyond the arc.
Guard KJ Thomas from UTEP will orchestrate an up‑tempo offense, bringing playmaking and defensive pressure, and Stef Van Bussel from Duquesne is expected to anchor the paint with grit and rebounding.
Veteran all‑around player Cade Kelderman, who saw limited minutes at Iowa State, is expected to contribute across the board, while Josh Townley‑Thomas from Creighton adds multiple scoring options after impressing in exhibition games.
The coaching staff also announced several departures, including Jordan Crawford to Missouri, Isaac Bruns heading to USC, Uzziah Buntyn moving to Northern Illinois, Shey Eberwein joining UTSA, Jesse McIntosh committing to William & Mary, Evan Anderson playing for Augustana in Sioux Falls, Porter Ihnen heading to Northern State, and Jonah Funk set to play at Upper Iowa.