Brian Kimmes

As the women’s basketball team rode the bus home from Laramie, Wyo., after a 70-59 loss to the University of Wyoming Cowgirls, SDSU fans planned a welcome-back bash for the team. When the players stepped off the bus, they stepped into Frost Arena and in front of more than 200 cheering fans, clapping and showing their support for a great season.

The loss to the Cowgirls in the Women’s National Invitation Tournament quarterfinals brought a close to the women’s fabulous season. The Jacks ended the season with a 25-6 record, tallying the most wins since the move to Division I.

The impromptu rally was an emotional celebration for the team. Head Coach Aaron Johnston could barely stay composed when he addressed the crowd, thanking all fans for the support during the season.

After Johnston spoke, sophomore forward Jen Warkenthien addressed the crowd and echoed Johnston’s praise for the fans. She said the team plays for all the fans and for the state of South Dakota, not just themselves.

To end the gathering, senior Megan Vogel took the microphone. The crowd gave her an extended ovation, and her teammates stood and applauded the departing star. Vogel, with the emotions of a long trip on her face, thanked all the fans for the support during the past four seasons and called the fans part of her basketball family.

#1.883600:807820634.jpg:welcomehome.jn.jpg:Fans continue support for the Jacks March 26 as the team returns home from Wyoming.: