A new chapter in Summit League basketball begins today at the Scheels Center, as teams vie for the league”s automatic berth in the NCAA Tournament. Notably, both St. Thomas and North Dakota excelled in the non-conference games, achieving the most victories of any teams in the league.
Last year”s tournament saw Omaha make headlines by securing its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance, despite being picked last in the preseason poll. The Mavericks dominated the regular season and captured the conference tournament title. However, following their success, they faced the challenge of losing key players to the transfer portal.
This season, anticipation surrounds the University of St. Thomas. Chosen as the preseason favorite to win the conference, the Tommies are now eligible for postseason play for the first time. Coach Johnny Tauer has restructured his roster, retaining standout guard Nolan Minnesale, who has emerged as the preseason player of the year, averaging 22 points per game. Furthermore, the Tommies benefit from the excitement of their new $175 million arena, where they remain undefeated.
St. Thomas aims to replicate North Dakota State”s success from 2009, when they also made the NCAA Tournament in their first eligible year.
Several other compelling narratives are set to unfold as the Summit League season commences. Denver, historically struggling at the Division I level, has high hopes under the leadership of former Minnesota State Moorhead head coach Tim Bergstraser. The Pioneers, bolstered by last year”s NSIC tournament MVP Carson Johnson, who is averaging 17 points, and former Bison Jeremiah Burke, scoring 16 points per game, secured their biggest victory by defeating Colorado State in the non-conference.
South Dakota State also enters the season with a new head coach, Bryan Petersen, and a revamped roster. Key player Kalen Garry has been performing well, averaging nearly 18 points over the last month. The Jackrabbits recorded a 7-8 record in non-league play, including a close game against the top-ranked Arizona.
South Dakota retained most of its roster, led by guard Isaac Bruns, a preseason all-league selection. Bruns has scored 20 points in eight games this season, making his performance crucial as the team has already faced four season-ending injuries.
North Dakota State started strong with 10 wins in 11 games before faltering in their last two non-conference outings. The Bison”s dynamic duo of Marki Strickland and Trevian Carson has proven effective, and with Damari Wheeler-Thomas returning, the team is focused on revitalizing its defense. After two years without a league tournament victory, the Bison are poised to make an impact in March.
Last year”s champions are regaining their form and health, with former Bison Lance Waddles being one of the leading three-point shooters nationally. Tony Osburn has established himself as one of the toughest guards in the league, known for his clutch performances.
The rest of the league faces significant challenges as well. Kansas City, North Dakota, and Oral Roberts have encountered recent setbacks. UND has traveled extensively, from Hawaii to Nebraska, and managed a notable win against Winthrop, a team ranked in the top 75 of the NET standings. Meanwhile, Oral Roberts is adjusting to a new coach and a significantly altered roster, while the Roos have four players averaging double figures, showcasing their athletic potential to compete.
