A highly anticipated men's college basketball matchup is set for December 21, 2026, when South Dakota State University travels to the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls to face the University of Wisconsin‑Green Bay. The game marks the first time the Green Bay program will appear in Sioux Falls, drawing attention from fans and analysts alike.
Green Bay's recent surge under head coach Doug Gottlieb has been dramatic. The program posted a 14‑game improvement in the 2025‑26 season, culminating in a second‑round finish at the Horizon League Tournament, a turnaround that has elevated expectations for the upcoming contest.
A Milestone for Green Bay Basketball
South Dakota State has called the Sanford Pentagon home for seven straight seasons, compiling a 10‑6 record since 2020 under coach Bryan Petersen. The venue, which will host its tenth Division I basketball event during the 2026‑27 season, provides a modern stage for the rivalry.
The two schools have met four times previously, with Green Bay holding a 3‑0 edge in the all‑time series. That historical advantage adds a narrative layer to the upcoming clash, as the Jackrabbits seek to reverse the trend.
Beyond the headline game, the Pentagon's schedule includes additional matchups such as Murray State versus Tennessee State and Iowa State versus Memphis on November 21, along with women's basketball contests on November 11 and 14. These events underscore the arena's role as a hub for collegiate basketball in the region.
Sanford Sports, the athletics arm of Sanford Health, is positioning the tournament as a showcase for community engagement, aiming to serve over a million athletes annually across its programs. The organization's involvement highlights the broader impact of the event on local sports development.