UNC Women’s Basketball Faces Undefeated South Dakota State in Cancun Clash

The No. 12 ranked UNC Tar Heels women’s basketball team faces its toughest non-conference test yet. They meet the undefeated South Dakota State Jackrabbits at the Cancun Challenge in Mexico. The game tips off at 11 a.m. ET on Thursday, November 27, 2025.This first-ever matchup features two of the nation’s most efficient offenses. South Dakota State brings a perfect 5-0 record, including a win over Gonzaga. UNC enters the contest with a strong 5-1 record and a top-15 national ranking.

Elite Offenses Set for Riviera Maya Showdown

This game promises a high-scoring battle between two supremely talented teams. According to AP Sports data, South Dakota State averages 83.0 points per game. They shoot a remarkable 51.3% from the field, a top-ten national mark.UNC counters with a potent attack of their own, scoring over 80 points per game. The Tar Heels are led by head coach Courtney Banghart in her seventh season. Their projected starters include key players like Reniya Kelly and forward Ciera Toomey.The Jackrabbits’ defense has also been impressive, holding foes to 64 points per game. UNC’s defense has been even stingier, allowing just 53.8 points on average. This sets the stage for a compelling clash of styles at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya.

Brooklyn Meyer Leads South Dakota State’s Historic Charge

The centerpiece of South Dakota State’s success is senior star Brooklyn Meyer. She averages 22.6 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game. Meyer ranks 13th nationally in scoring and is a formidable interior presence.Her matchup with UNC’s frontcourt, particularly Ciera Toomey, will be critical. The Jackrabbits are not a one-player team, however. Senior guard Maddie Mathiowetz is shooting 55% from three-point range this season.This combination of inside dominance and perimeter shooting makes South Dakota State a complete threat. Their perfect start has validated their status as a preseason Summit League favorite. A win over a ranked ACC power would further cement their tournament credentials.

Tournament Implications and a Major Milestone at Stake

The outcome holds significant weight for both programs’ postseason trajectories. For UNC, a victory puts the program within reach of a historic milestone. The Tar Heels are approaching 1,100 all-time program wins.Achieving that would make them just the 17th Division I women’s team to hit that mark. Under Coach Banghart, UNC has excelled in multi-team events like this one. They boast a 10-2 record in such tournaments since her arrival.For South Dakota State, this is a chance to prove last season’s deep tournament run was no fluke. They lost to eventual champion UConn in the second round. A win over No. 12 UNC would be a massive statement on a national stage.

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This Cancun Challenge showdown is more than a holiday tournament game. It is a litmus test for two championship-caliber women’s basketball teams with serious March aspirations. The result will send a clear message about which elite offense can triumph under the bright lights.

Info at your fingertips

Who is South Dakota State’s best player?

Senior center Brooklyn Meyer is their undisputed leader. She averages 22.6 points and 3.2 blocks per game, ranking among the national leaders in both categories.

What channel is the UNC vs South Dakota State game on?

The game is being streamed live on FloCollege. Audio coverage is also available through the Varsity Network app for fans.

What is South Dakota State’s women’s basketball record?

The Jackrabbits are a perfect 5-0 heading into this game. Their wins include victories over Gonzaga, Montana, and Rice.

Why is this UNC game important for their season?

A win helps UNC reach the historic 1,100 program wins milestone. It also provides a major resume boost for NCAA Tournament seeding later in the season.

Has South Dakota State played a ranked team this year?

No. This game against No. 12 UNC is their first test against a ranked opponent this season. It is a major opportunity for them.

Where is the Cancun Challenge being played?

All tournament games are held at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya in Cancun, Mexico. It is a popular early-season event for top college teams.

Trusted Sources

Information for this report was gathered from official athletic department releases, AP Sports game previews, and statistical data from the Cancun Challenge organizers.