The South Dakota women’s basketball team received significant recognition from the Summit League on Tuesday, with junior Molly Joyce earning Newcomer of the Year honors. Angelina Robles was named to the First Team All-Summit League, even as Joyce also secured a spot on the Second Team, and Elise Turrubiates received an honorable mention.
Summit League Accolades Reflect Team Improvement
The awards come as South Dakota demonstrated substantial improvement during league play, boasting a seven-game win increase from the previous season (5-11 to 12-4). The Coyotes’ overall record doubled from 11 wins last season to 22 this year, tying them for the fourth-best win improvement at the Division I level.
Player Performances Drive Success
Molly Joyce, a transfer from Truman State, averaged 15.8 points per game during Summit League play, shooting .396 from the field, .393 from three-point range, and .864 from the free throw line. She also contributed 2.9 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game, and ranked third in the league with an 86.4% free throw percentage. Joyce scored over 20 points in the first four conference games and reached double figures in 14 of 16.
Angelina Robles, who joined the team from Denver, led the Coyotes in scoring with 16.4 points per game and assists with 3.6 per game during conference play. She also averaged 3.6 rebounds and 1.2 steals. Robles earned the 20th First Team All-Summit League honor for USD.
Elise Turrubiates, a transfer from Tarleton State, averaged 7.9 points and 7.9 rebounds per game during conference play, along with 1.6 steals. Her rebound total tied for fifth in the league, and her steal total tied for fourth.
Looking Ahead
The Summit League Tournament begins Wednesday. South Dakota’s quarterfinal matchup against Denver is scheduled to take place 25 minutes after the conclusion of the Oral Roberts-St. Thomas game, which begins at noon Friday in the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was named Summit League Newcomer of the Year?
Molly Joyce of South Dakota was named the Summit League Newcomer of the Year.
How much did South Dakota’s win total improve this season?
South Dakota doubled their win total from 11 last season to 22 this year.
Which Coyote earned First Team All-Summit League honors?
Angelina Robles earned First Team All-Summit League honors.
As South Dakota enters the Summit League Tournament with a significantly improved record, what role will these award-winning players play in the team’s pursuit of a championship?
