Game Preview: “Battle of the Blues” – Trojans & Tigers Rivalry Renewed

The Women’s Basketball team will host the first ever “Battle of the Blues” matchup at the DSU Fieldhouse and take on longtime rival, Dakota Wesleyan.

The Trojans are 3-2 overall and the Tigers are 1-0 overall. These two teams haven’t played one another since Dec. 11, 2019 and DWU won that game 87-79 at the DSU Fieldhouse.

Dakota Wesleyan

The Tigers come into this game having played just one contest so far this year, winning it 86-55 over Valley City State. They are led in scoring by freshman forward Emma Yost. Who posted 22 points on 61.5% from the field in their opener and her college debut. Yost is a back to the basket player with some size and is consistent on the glass. The team has an underrated presence in regards to protecting the rim, even though they’re undersized.

Followed by sophomore Grace Fryda who came off the bench for the Tigers. She shot 5-for-9 from deep, scoring 16 points. Fryda missed all of last season with a knee injury, but hasn’t missed a beat so far in her return.

DWU is not a tall team, with just one player at or above six feet. Though it’s a potent offense that likes to get up and down the floor. Dakota Wesleyan had two players make four or more threes against VCSU. All other Tigers were 1-6 from beyond the arc.

Dakota State

The Trojans come into this game fresh off a win in the DSU Fieldhouse in a tight one with Kansas Wesleyan. They’re scoring 75.2 points per game and are led by senior forward Savannah Walsdorf. She leads in scoring with 12.8 points per game. Followed by junior forward Angela Slattery with 11.6 points per game.

The team has had trouble shooting the ball in this early part of the year, regardless of having a winning record. Troubles also in the turnover department, which has been part of the culprit of letting teams stay closer than they should. They’re averaging 18 turnovers per game through five games.

When this offense clicks, it’s a thing of beauty. They play fast and like to move the ball. Always looking for the best shot, no matter how many passes it takes to get it. Just clean up the minor issues and make those open shots. Then you’re in a good spot to get wins with bigger margins of victory.

Tipoff for Battle of the Blues is set for 5:30pm with pregame beginning at 5:15pm on Jammin Country 103!