South Dakota State Tops Valparaiso 81-69 Behind Strong Second Half

South Dakota State defeated Valparaiso 81-69 on November 12, 2026, at Frost Arena, using a decisive second-half run and a balanced scoring effort to secure an important early-season NCAA basketball victory. The Jackrabbits trailed briefly in the first half but took control after halftime, leaning on their interior defense and efficient shot selection to pull away.

The final score reflected South Dakota State’s steadiness on both ends. The Jackrabbits shot 47.5% from the field, made nine three-pointers, and held a 38-31 rebounding advantage. Valparaiso shot 41.7% and hit eight three-pointers, but the Beacons could not match South Dakota State’s execution over the final 15 minutes.

Game Overview

South Dakota State led 38-33 at halftime after a back-and-forth first half. Valparaiso stayed close by knocking down timely three-pointers and attacking the offensive glass, but the Jackrabbits’ defense tightened late in the half. South Dakota State’s guards did a good job of controlling tempo and getting the ball into the paint, which created open looks on the perimeter.

The second half belonged to the Jackrabbits. South Dakota State opened with a 12-0 run, turning a five-point lead into a 17-point cushion. Valparaiso responded with a run of its own, but the Beacons never got closer than eight points the rest of the way.

Key Moments

The decisive stretch came in the first four minutes of the second half. South Dakota State forced three straight empty possessions and converted each one into points. A three-pointer from the corner capped the 12-0 run and forced Valparaiso into a timeout. The Jackrabbits’ defensive intensity during that stretch set the tone for the rest of the game.

Valparaiso made one last push midway through the half, cutting the lead to 58-50 behind back-to-back three-pointers. South Dakota State answered with a patient possession that ended in a layup, then forced a turnover on the other end. The Jackrabbits followed with a 7-0 run that restored a comfortable margin.

Tactical Story

South Dakota State’s half-court defense was the key to the win. The Jackrabbits limited Valparaiso’s driving lanes and forced the Beacons into contested perimeter shots. When Valparaiso tried to attack inside, South Dakota State’s help defense arrived quickly, resulting in tough finishes and a few key blocks.

Offensively, the Jackrabbits were patient and balanced. South Dakota State recorded 18 assists on 29 made field goals and scored consistently in the paint. The Jackrabbits also took care of the ball, committing only 10 turnovers. Valparaiso, by contrast, finished with 14 turnovers and struggled to generate clean looks in the final 10 minutes.

Standout Players

South Dakota State guard Noah Larson led the Jackrabbits with 22 points, including four three-pointers and several key baskets during the second-half run. Forward Caleb Meyer added 15 points and 11 rebounds, while guard Grant Olson contributed 13 points and five assists. Meyer’s presence on the glass gave South Dakota State a physical edge inside.

Valparaiso was paced by Drew Talbot, who scored 18 points and hit three three-pointers. Miles Grant added 14 points, but the Beacons’ offense stalled for long stretches in the second half. Valparaiso’s guards created some good looks, but the Beacons could not convert enough of them to keep pace.

What It Means

The win gives South Dakota State a confidence-building result and another example of the Jackrabbits’ ability to win with defense and balanced scoring. South Dakota State’s second-half surge showed maturity and poise, qualities that will be important as the season progresses.

Valparaiso will leave the game encouraged by its first-half competitiveness but disappointed by the second-half lull. The Beacons need to find more consistent offense against physical defenses and reduce turnovers in crucial moments. The 81-69 final score gives South Dakota State a solid early-season win and Valparaiso a clear set of areas to address.