South Dakota State Proves There’s More Than One Way To Win, Beats Omaha By 11

South Dakota State made up for a poor shooting night with rebounding, defense, and free throws, beating Omaha 71-60 at Frost Arena in Brookings.

It was the first game for SDSU following their first conference loss of the season last Saturday at IUPUI.

Like they have lately, the Jacks were sparked offensively early by Mariah Clarin.  She hit back to back baskets in the first few minutes to give SDSU a six-point lead.

But Omaha had an answer when Felicia Anderson hit back-to-back 3-pointers to give the Mavericks a five point edge after an 11-2 run.

Ericka House also came up big the UNO in the first half knocking down the 3's of her own, as the Mavs outshot the Jacks 50 to 38 percent in the first 20 minutes, leading 34-30 at the break.

In the second half, Clarin (18 points) got plenty of help at the offensive end, with Megan Waytashek (15), Steph Paluch (12), and Chynna Stevens (12) all chipping in to finish in double figures.

SDSU only shot 37 percent on the night, compared to 46 percent for Omaha.

The Jacks never did find a way to stop House, who finished with 30, but SDSU did force 20 UNO turnovers, outrebound the Mavs by 16, including 24 offensive boards, and outscore Omaha 16-4 at the free throw line.

The Jackrabbits have won 15 straight games at home.

South Dakota State (18-8/9-1) hosts Western Illinois Saturday at 4:00pm in Brookings.