South Dakota State University was predicted to place first in conferences at the 2023 Summit League Media Day on Oct. 10.

Head coach Eric Henderson says this would not be possible without the team’s dedication and the players’ bonds. He credits the leadership of the older players to the bonding of the players and their striving towards connectivity.

“Well, we got some older guys, Mims, Charlie, and Appel, that have been in our program for a long time and so they know what it means and feels like to have expectations,” Henderson said. “And those three in particular older guys have really helped those new guys in a positive way.”

Point guard Zeke Mayo was named Preseason Player of the Year at the 2023 Summit League Media Day. Mayo from Lawrence, Kanas, says this accomplishment would not be possible without putting in the work and the support of the coaches and his teammates.

“I mean, I’m blessed to be in this position for sure,” Mayo said.

The accomplishments and hopes for the year will not be possible without the hard work and friendships the players and coaches put in.

Henderson says they try not to focus on what could happen in the season and stick to what they can control and hope the chips land where they want them.

However, two teams within the conference pose a challenge for the upcoming season. Oral Roberts and North Dakota State University both of whom South Dakota State lost to last year. The loss to NDSU caused the team to lose their first game in the NCAA tournament last season. Other teams like Omaha, St. Thomas, and University of South Dakota are also on Henderson’s radar.

“You know you’re not going to have any nights off,” Henderson said. “But if you were to ask me who I think is at the top, it’s probably Oral Roberts and North Dakota State.”

Luke Appel, a redshirt senior, was out most of the season last year due to multiple injuries, particularly his shoulder. He is excited to play with his team again this year.

“Just coming back and being able to do whatever I can to help our team get there,” Appel said. “Just trying to stay as positive as I could and cheer on my teammates.”

6-foot 9-inch sophomore, William Kyle III, worked with Appel last year and both are blessed to be able to play together again.

“Sometimes I joke around like this sucks that you got hurt but I’m very, very glad I get to play a year with him,” Kyle said. “Because he did help me out a lot last year, and it brought us very close together, and I really appreciate everything he did for me.”

Luke was not the only player back on the court this year either, Charlie Easley and Matthew Mors are now back from injuries. As well as a few new additions including the seven-foot transfer from Wyoming, Nate Barnhart.

Henderson encourages fans to join them in Frost Arena to see the new players and the connectivity of the team. Their season opener is on Nov. 1 in Frost Arena against the University of Mary. Tipoff is set for 8:30 p.m.

“I think the atmosphere can be terrific and how the students have shown up and supported the football program is absolutely phenomenal,” Coach Henderson said. “We can’t wait for them to join us in Frost and create an atmosphere that’s challenging for opponents.”