The two-time defending Summit League regular season champions are already looking ahead, as South Dakota State volleyball has officially released its highly anticipated 2026 schedule. With a mix of powerhouse non-conference matchups and key league battles, the Jackrabbits are set for another thrilling campaign.
The season kicks off in late August at the Pepperdine Tournament in Malibu, providing an early test against top-tier competition. Then, all eyes will be on Brookings for the home opener on September 2, when national powerhouse Nebraska visits First Bank & Trust Arena—a marquee matchup that promises to draw a massive crowd.
SDSU will also face a pair of Big Ten foes during the South Dakota Lottery College Volleyball Classic at the Pentagon in Sioux Falls on September 18-19, taking on Washington and Minnesota. These matchups should offer a great gauge of where the Jacks stand against some of the nation's elite programs.
Conference play begins on September 25 with a Friday night trip to Vermillion to face USD, setting the stage for an intense rivalry showdown. The Jacks will host Omaha on Halloween night, just after the football team takes on USD at Dykhouse Stadium, making for a full day of Jackrabbit athletics. The Coyotes return to Brookings on October 23.
Last season, SDSU posted an impressive 23-5 overall record and a perfect 16-0 mark in Summit League play. Despite a surprising conference tournament upset by St. Thomas, the Jacks earned an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament for the second straight year—a testament to their consistency and rising national profile.
Key 2026 Dates:
- August 21: Exhibition vs. Southwest Minnesota State, 6 p.m.
- Late August: Pepperdine Tournament (Malibu)
- September 2: Home opener vs. Nebraska
- September 18-19: South Dakota Lottery Classic (Sioux Falls) vs. Washington & Minnesota
- September 25: Summit League opener at USD
- October 23: USD at Brookings
- October 31: Omaha at Brookings (Halloween night)
For fans looking to gear up for the season, be sure to check out our latest collection of Jackrabbits volleyball apparel and accessories—perfect for showing your support all year long!